One of the three destinations of the Three Castles’ Walk and at the same time Appiano’s most famous castle towers above Missiano
One of the main fortified Castles of South Tyrol is enthroned on a rugged rock face above Missiano (Missian): It is Appiano Castle (Burg Hocheppan, in German) which history dates back to 1125 AD and Lord Ulrich II of Appiano - some researchers, however, claim that it has emerged in a subsequent date. In 1158, the Lords of Appiano attacked a papal delegation and were punished by Henry the Lion with the demolition of the fortress. The castle was soon rebuilt. After the Counts of Enzenberg, the municipality of Appiano acquired the property in 2016.
Appiano Castle is well protected: The defending parts date back to the 16th century and are completed by a turret outside the circular wall. Also the Chalk Tower (Kreideturm), approx. 10 minutes away, is part of the complex. The pentagonal donjon, however, is one of the few of its kind. Inside the building there are a tavern and the castle chapel which boasts one of the best preserved fresco cycles all over Tyrol dating back to the 13th century. Appiano Castle can be reached from the village in a 45-minute walk - the chapel and the castle can be visited during a guided tour.
Contact info
- Via Castel d'Appiano / Hocheppanerweg 16 - 39057 - Missiano Appiano / Missian Eppan
- +39 0471 662206
- hocheppan@eppan.com
More information
Appiano Castle with the castle chapel is accessible only during a guided tour, the inner courtyard with the tavern, however, is freely accessible: The castle stays open every year from Easter to early November, closed in winter. Season start 2025 in April.
