Castle Tyrol: Where the history of Tyrol began
Imposing and full of charm, Castle Tyrol is more than a medieval monument — it is a symbol: from this fortress, the region of Tyrol took its name. Perched on a panoramic rocky hill above Merano, the castle was the main residence of the Counts of Tyrol until 1420, when the seat of power was moved to Innsbruck.
Today, Castle Tyrol houses the South Tyrolean Museum of Cultural and Provincial History, which tells — through artifacts, exhibitions, and multimedia installations — the history of South Tyrol from its origins to the 20th century.
From ancient origins to a symbol of power
The area where the castle stands was inhabited since prehistoric times and shows important traces from the early Middle Ages, including burials and Roman artifacts. A major archaeological discovery in 1993 revealed the remains of three early Christian churches built one atop another: the oldest dates to the Roman period, the second to the 6th century, and the third — a three-apsed structure — to the 8th–9th century. The latter was later abandoned due to unstable terrain.
From the 11th century onward, the remains of these churches were reused to build the first fortress, whose traces are still visible in the underground areas and in the chapel, now beautifully restored.
Architectural evolution and romantic restorations
Between 1139 and 1140, the keep — the central square tower with walls over five meters thick — was constructed, and today its first three original floors are still preserved. It is not yet certain whether work on the keep was halted due to the construction of the refectory or because the tower deteriorated in the fire of 1302, but we know it was completed only between 1902 and 1904, using stones recovered from a nearby farmstead.
Over the centuries, the castle underwent numerous extensions and alterations: Mainard II commissioned the construction of a new palace on the eastern side (later collapsed), and in the 19th century, the entire structure was renovated in romantic style. During that period, the chapel was also elevated and divided into two levels: St. Pancras on the lower floor and St. Elizabeth of Hungary above.
A castle, a museum, a unique landscape
Today, Castle Tyrol is one of the most representative fortresses in South Tyrol, both for its historical importance and for the beauty of its surroundings. The historical and cultural museum offers a complete and engaging experience: from archaeological finds to interactive models, from the political history of Tyrol to the everyday life of Alpine populations.
The visit also includes a magnificent panoramic walkway, a frescoed chapel, and breathtaking views over the Adige Valley — making it an unmissable destination for anyone wishing to truly understand the soul of South Tyrol.