Castle Prösels: Medieval fortress of strategy, nobility, and legend

Suspended between the Dolomites and history, Castle Prösels (Castel Presule) is one of South Tyrol’s most fascinating fortresses. Its origins date back to the 13th century, and although the first written record appears in 1279, its construction likely began earlier, around 1200. The choice of location was no accident: the castle overlooks the junction between the Isarco Valley and the historic route toward the Val di Fassa, offering an exceptional strategic view over the entire valley.

A breathtaking view

Just a short walk from the castle stands the Pulverturm, a stone tower from the 13th century once used as a powder magazine. Today it is open to visitors and offers a spectacular panorama of the surrounding mountains and the Sciliar plateau, clearly showing the site’s strategic importance in the Middle Ages.

The castle of the Lords of Fiè

From 1450 to 1805, Castle Prösels served as the residence of the Lords of Fiè, a noble family who held positions of power under the bishops of Brixen and the Counts of Tyrol. Its golden age came under Leonhard von Völs, an influential politician and governor of the Burgraviato, who transformed the fortress into a Renaissance-style residence — elegant yet secure.

Leonhard obtained the right to include Roman columns in the family coat of arms, symbolizing a legendary descent from the Roman Colonna family — an emblem still visible today in the coat of arms of the municipality of Fiè.

Witch trials and peasant revolts

The castle also bears witness to darker events. It was here that the infamous witch trials took place in 1506 and 1510, during which many women were accused of witchcraft and brutally executed. A commemorative plaque now honors the victims of those persecutions.

In 1525, during the Peasants’ War, the castle was seized and became the site where the “Edicts of Freedom” were proclaimed, making it a symbol of social rebellion.

Castle Prösels today

After the decline of the von Völs family, the castle fell into disuse and decay. Only in the 20th century did significant restoration work begin. Since 1981, the site has been managed by the Curatorium Castle Prösels, which has turned it into a vibrant cultural center.

Today, visitors can explore the beautifully preserved historical rooms, join guided tours, and attend cultural events and historical reenactments, experiencing a magical place where nature, legend, and history come together.