The Montechiaro Castle ruins near Prato allo Stelvio: stunning views and important frescoes
Image gallery: Montechiaro Castle
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Above Prato allo Stelvio, Montechiaro Castle (Ruine Lichtenberg) stands proudly, offering magnificent views across the Venosta Valley as far as Coira Castle in Sluderno. They rise majestically above the small hamlet of Montechiaro, which shares their name. Though the complex is in ruins, it still exudes an air of authority, bearing witness to a noble past.
The powerful Counts of Tyrol owned the castle until 1513, after which it passed to the Counts Khuen-Belasi, who retain ownership to this day. Montechiaro Castle, too, boasts an eventful history. It was built at the end of the 12th century, presumably by the Lords of Mazia. The ridge on which it stands was strategically advantageous. From this vantage point, one could survey the sphere of influence of the Diocese of Chur and the Counts of Tyrol - the Upper and Lower Venosta.
The complex once included a crenellated curtain wall, a gatehouse, a castle chapel, a battlement and a large, three-story Palas. In the 16th century, the complex was converted into a fortified Renaissance castle. However, about a century ago, the magnificent structure above Montechiaro began its slow but steady decline. The Montechiaro Castle ruins are now freely accessible.
In addition, engaging art history tours are available. On such a tour, you'll discover, for instance, that the castle's fresco cycle depicted the Minnesang, the singers and knights of the Middle Ages. It is considered Tyrol's most important secular fresco cycle after that of Roncolo Castle near Bolzano. In 1912, the frescoes were detached and transferred to the Tyrolean State Museum Ferdinandeum in Innsbruck. A few, however, remained at the ruins. How to get there: Parking is available in Montechiaro. From there, the castle can be reached via a short 10-15 minute walk.
Contact info
- Via del Castello / Schlossweg - 39026 - Montechiaro/Prato / Lichtenberg/Prad
- +39 0473 616034
- tv@prad.info
Opening times
Despite careful control we cannot guarantee the correctness of the provided data.
Admission
freely accessible
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art history tour:
€ 10.00 adults
€ 10.00 young people (15-18 years)
€ 5.00 children (6-14 years)
discount with the PradCard
to pay in cash on site
More information
The ruins themselves are freely accessible. The opening hours refer to the art history tours offered by PradKULT every year from the end of April to early November.
Registration by 6 pm the day before online or at the Prato allo Stelvio Tourist Information Office. The meeting point is in front of the parish church in Montechiaro. Group rates and tours on other days are available upon request.
Season start 2025 on April 26.
