Naturno Castle

This medieval castle overlooks vineyards on the slopes of the Val Venosta Sun Mountain

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The history of Naturno Castle dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries, when a Romanesque residential tower was built here.
Foto: AT, © Peer
This residential tower later became known as the “Oswald Tower” after Knight Oswald of Naturno: After that, the complex was slowly expanded.
Foto: AT, © Peer
Today Naturno Castle (Burg Hochnaturns) presents itself as an interestingly intricate building, which is privately owned and cannot be visited.
Foto: AT, © Peer
Inside, medieval furniture, coffered ceilings, paintings and tiled stoves make up the charm of the historic lordly rooms.
Foto: AT, © Peer
View from the parish church of the main village of Naturno towards the castle: In between lies the Naturno Adventure Thermal Bath.
Foto: AT, © Peer
Naturno Castle can also be seen from the Knights’ Path: A second trail, the Naturno Wallburg Path, leads past the complex.
Foto: AT, © Peer
Here it is: The Wallburg Path is still easily walkable in November, and the Val Venosta Monte Sole offers a mild climate all year round.
Foto: AT, © Peer

High above Naturno village rises an ancient castle. Surrounding it are the vineyards and apple orchards of the Val Venosta Monte Sole, renowned for its steppe-like vegetation. The history of Naturno Castle dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Originally, it consisted of a Romanesque tower, built by ministeriales of the Counts of Tyrol. Over time, the tower was rebuilt and extended.

Eventually, an entire castle complex emerged. The tower was named "Oswald Tower" after Oswald of Naturno, a Teutonic Knight. Naturno Castle was the ancestral seat of the Lords of Naturno and is now considered a local landmark. Of particular note are the medieval furnishings, coffered ceilings, paintings, tiled stoves, and artefacts within the state rooms.

This unique setting housed a hotel for several decades. Today, Naturno Castle (Burg Hochnaturns) is a listed building, privately owned by two families from the village. It sits enthroned approximately one kilometre above the centre on the Via Castello road. How to get to the castle: The Naturno Adventure Thermal Baths are located below.

Parking is available in the village, and the 251 bus route connects Merano with Naturno. The castle is also easily accessible on foot: The Wallburg Path of Naturno passes close by. Since Naturno Castle is privately owned, it can, unfortunately, only be admired from the outside.