Welsberg Castle

Welsberg-Taisten, Italy

Welsberg Castle (Castel Monguelfo in Italian) lies in a strategic position above Casies Valley. The castle was built in 1140 by the two brother Schwinkher and Otto von Welsberg. This latest wanted the overhanging upon his lands. For more than 800 years the castle had been property of the von Welsbergs, one of the mightiest families in Tyrol, who obtained the title of Prince of the Holy Roman Empire in 1693 by the emperor Leopold I.

The construction can be divided into two main periods: the first Romanesque one in the XII century, and the second one, in the gothic and Renaissance period in the XVI century. The oldest element of the castle is the tall defensive tower built between 1126 and 1140. Around it the old Romanesque chapel, the residential building, and the other buildings had been built.

In 1765 the castle was destroyed by a fire and the upper floor had to be broken up and the roof brought down to the present height. Since then the castle had been forgotten till recent times when the heir of the Welspergs entrusted it to the Kuratorium Committee which completely restored it and made visits available during summer season.

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Details

Founded: 1140
Category: Castles and fortifications in Italy

Rating

4.4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Betta Rautio (2 years ago)
What a delightful castle! A lot of fun photo opportunities and a very well laid out touring program. Kids will enjoy. No parking near and it is not easily accessible for the handicapped. There is a nice walking path with beautiful artwork along the way. Pieces are authentic and explanations along the way tell you the the history of the castle. Photos allow you to get up close and personal with the people, town, and culture of the area. Make sure to get a family photo to create those fun memories! Price point was incredible. Children and Senior Citizen discounts available. CHECK THE WEBSITE for opening times as they do vary. This castle is privately owned.
Sanity and Logic (2 years ago)
Very nice little castle. Access by foot from the public parking in town (follow the signs). Short hike uphill paved road and then through the forest. Castle well kept and nice exhibitions. Recommended to combine with lake Braies or other attractions in the area.
Mariana Vahalova (2 years ago)
Beautiful medieval castle nicely reconstructed, with self tour (you get a leaflet full of info) in the exteriors as well as interiors, interiors are cozy and richly decorated, there is a tap with drinking water and a botanical garden outside with names of all 70plants and herbs. 5€ adult entry is worth it
Ladislav Kubeš (2 years ago)
Great little castle close to the villiage where you can par on multiple park places. Path to the castle is easy to find, just follow the signs.
Eric Scott (2 years ago)
It's not too bad of a walk up the hill to get to the castle. Enjoyed a few of the photo opportunities along the way. Wouldn't go out of my way to see it, but if you're in the area and have the extra time, it's a good stop.
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