Maretsch Castle, Bolzano, Italy

Maretsch Castle (Castel Mareccio) is a picturesque 13th century castle surrounded by vineyards. The oldest tower of the castle has been built in 1194 by Berthold von Maretsch - according to documents he was a commissary of the Lords of Tyrol and lawyer in Bolzano. In the beginning there was only the massive donjon, which can still be seen today.

In the 13th and 14th century different owners kept amplifying the castle complex. Also the defensive corridor and the crenellations date back to these times. In 1477 Sigmund Römer purchased the complex. The Römer family started rebuilding the castle, changing the medieval complex into a Renaissance building between 1560 and 1570. Four round towers were added in the course of these works which lasted for several decades. Also frescos were commissioned illustrating philosophers of these days.

In the 1980s the building has been restored but is no longer inhabited. Today this castle is merely venue for fairs, concerts, weddings and various other events. From the old town of Bolzano, capital city of the province of South Tyrol, you can reach Castel Mareccio within a few minutes’ walk.

References:

suedtirolerland.it

User Reviews

Gabor Kristofcsak (10 months ago)
Worth a look if you are in Bolzano. Unfortunately there was a private event, we could not see its inside.

Milja Nieminen (miljammaria) (11 months ago)
The most stunning place in Bozen

egon stemle (2 years ago)
were there for a public event. the glass covered inner courtyard, the winding corridors and halls contributed nicely to a pleasant atmosphere.

Paul Heller (2 years ago)
The castle itself isn't anything great. You also can't enter. It's for private use or public events. However it sits near city center in the middle of vineyards. In spring it's beautiful, with mountain views behind. Worth stopping at.

Kamila Świerska (2 years ago)
Currently, you can only see it from outside. Nice area, vineyards around. It's worth seeing it, looks very nice.

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Klearchos Kapoutsis

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