Naturno: Nature, Culture and Wonders Amid the Mountains of South Tyrol
Naturns lies 15 km west of Merano, right in the heart of the Texel Group Nature Park. The municipality stretches from the picturesque village of Plaus to the charming hamlets of Tabland, Tschirland and Staben. Whether it’s a family holiday packed with activities for all ages, outdoor adventures such as hiking, climbing or biking, or pure relaxation at the Naturns Adventure Thermal Spa, everyone will find something to enjoy here.
A Land Inhabited Since Prehistoric Times
The origins of Naturno date back to the Mesolithic period: numerous archaeological finds testify to ancient human settlements. Today, these roots are reflected in its churches, castles and historic villages, where time seems to stand still.
Don’t miss:
- The Church of San Procolo, famous for its frescoes — among the oldest in the Alpine region.
- Juval Castle, the summer residence of mountaineer Reinhold Messner and home to one of his museums dedicated to the mountains.
The Hamlets of Naturno: Small Treasures to Discover
Cirlano: Between Historic Farms and Sacred Art
This ancient farming village, Cirlano, is home to the fascinating Obermairhof, a farmhouse with a medieval tower that once contained a torture chamber. Here you’ll also find the Church of St. Oswald, with its tall Gothic bell tower and frescoes by local artist Simon Ybertracher.
Plaus: History, Art and Nature
The name Plaus comes from the Latin Palus (“swamp”), recalling its ancient marshy past. Mentioned as early as 1270, this village preserves the Church of St. Ulrich, featuring a Romanesque tower and historical frescoes.
Not to be missed is the monumental cemetery with eleven Danse Macabre scenes painted by Luis Stefan Stecher. Plaus also hosts the Visitor Centre of the Texelgruppe Nature Park, the ideal starting point for exploring the area.
Tablà: Spectacular Views and Authentic Charm
Located at the entrance to the Schleidertal Valley, Tablà offers breathtaking views of Juval Castle and the area where Ötzi the Iceman was discovered on Mount Similaun.
Incorporated into the municipality of Naturno only in 1928, this hamlet is surrounded by apple orchards and features the picturesque Church of St. Nicholas, in Romanesque-Gothic style, with a late-Gothic altar and an impressive fresco of St. Christopher on its façade.
Relax just a stone’s throw from Merano, in an oasis of peace and tranquillity away from mass tourism. With frescoed churches, ancient villages and enchanting castles surrounded by unspoiled nature, Naturno will never cease to amaze you!
