Early Christian baptistry or prehistoric sacrificial site? In the middle of the Castelvecchio Forest stand the remains of the unique Saint Peter’s Basilica
A little over 600 metres above sea level - this is the highest point of the inhabited area of Caldaro on the Wine Road. This spot is located somewhat remotely to the south in Castelvecchio (Altenburg), a small village nestled in the middle of the Castelvecchio Forest, high above the village of Caldaro. Orchards and vines surround the houses, and on the edge of the village stands the Gothic Church of St. Vigilius with its colourful glazed roof tiles. On the tower walls you can see the oldest fresco Caldaro has to offer: It depicts St. Christopher and was created in 1320.
There is a special scenic spot near the church: A small meadow with wooden benches invites you to pause for a moment and enjoy the breathtaking view on Lake Caldaro and its surroundings. Another popular excursion destination is the gorge of the Rastenbach stream, the shady Rastenbach Gorge: Especially in summer, when the temperatures soar in the valley, it's pleasantly cool here amidst the moss and small waterfalls.
The Peace Trail passes by here, showing you a cultural treasure of Caldaro: the St. Peter's Basilica, the 7th station along the path. Although it stands in the middle of the forest, it is probably the oldest church in South Tyrol and one of the oldest sacred buildings in all of Tyrol. Cup-marked stones dating back to the Bronze Age (1,000 BC) have been found nearby, while the history of the ruins themselves dates back to the 4th to 6th centuries AD. The bus also stops at the starting point of the hiking trail and in the village: The bus stops are called Rastenbachklamm and Altenburg.
