Pietra Castle

Castelpietra is more than just a castle - it's the name of an entire hill with farmsteads, a biotope, and, of course, the imposing castle itself. You'll find this striking landmark near Campo di Trens in the Upper Valle Isarco, between the village itself and the "Sterzinger Moos" marshland, opposite Tasso Castle. While Pietra Castle is open to visitors, Tasso Castle can sadly only be admired from the outside. The hill on which the castle stands has been inhabited since prehistoric times.

The history of the castle itself goes back a long way: As early as 1241, it was mentioned as "newly built". The complex consists of a lower and upper ward with a keep and a residential building that has been rebuilt several times. The round keep dates back to the 13th century. Later additions include the Chapel of St. Erasmus with its winged altarpiece and frescoes, and the princely apartments with Renaissance furniture.

Legend has it that the ghost of a murdered knight with an arrow through his heart wanders the halls. Pietra Castle (Schloss Sprechenstein) has been owned by the Lords of Auersperg-Trautson for around 250 years. During the Second World War, the complex was severely damaged by bombs but was subsequently rebuilt by the owning family and the Trento Office of Cultural Heritage.

The neighbouring farmstead, once almost derelict, has also been restored to its former glory and now houses holiday apartments and a restaurant. How to get there: From Prati, the road towards the Val di Vizze valley leads directly to the castle. The 310 bus route stops below it. The Upper Valle Isarco Cycle Path, which stretches Bressanone to the Brennero Pass, also passes by Pietra Castle.