Chela Castle: Between ancient history and mystery

At an altitude of 1,188 meters, on a rocky spur overlooking the Tures Valley and the plain of Brunico, stand the evocative ruins of Chela Castle. This site fascinates visitors with its ancient past and the privileged position that offers an extraordinary panoramic view.

A thousand years of history

Chela Castle was built around the year 1000 by Saint Albuin, Bishop of Brixen, who purchased a farm from the nobleman Liuto to build a fortified residence. Over the centuries, the manor was entrusted to various noble families until, in 1545, it became the property of Hans II von Rost, a commander from Brixen. The bishop rewarded him by granting the castle on the condition that he restore it. The works were completed by his son, Karl Johann von Rost, giving the castle new splendor.

A succession of owners

The von Rost family held ownership of the castle for about 350 years, until 1891, when it was sold to the auxiliary bishop of Kaschau, in Hungary. The latter attempted an ambitious restoration, which, however, led to his financial ruin. In 1907, the castle was purchased by the German consul Wilhelm Assia Steffen.

After South Tyrol became part of Italy following the First World War, the castle became state property, later bought by the Venetian entrepreneur Vascellari, whose family still owns it today.

A fire and the silence of the ruins

On the night of April 30, 1944, a fire — the causes of which were never clarified — destroyed much of the building. Since then, the castle has never been rebuilt, leaving behind ruins full of charm and melancholy.

A place suspended in time

Today, Chela Castle is a romantic and memory-filled site that wordlessly tells a thousand years of stories. Its ruins, surrounded by unspoiled nature, offer a unique setting for those who love exploring remnants of the past in search of silence, scenery, and reflection.