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Hocheppan Castle

Hocheppan Castle

The Hocheppan Castle with its impressive donjon is located high above Missian, a district of Eppan on the wine route. Until today, it ranks among the most important fortresses in Southern South Tyrol and has some surprises in store for art lovers, panorama fans and gourmets preferring proper meals.

Culture hotels

The castle in the environs of Eppan was built in 1130 and was, already at that time, one of the mightiest aristocratic houses of the region. After an eventful history, the well-preserved Hocheppan Castle is an impressive witness of the Middle Ages, thanks to its beauty and magnificent panoramic position

Still, from an art-historical perspective, the chapel in the inner courtyard is the heart of the castle, which probably was built in the 12th century. Now and then, this chapel bears the byname “Sistine Chapel of the Alps”, because its walls are decorated with well-preserved Romanesque frescos. They are so special, because they do not only show religious scenes. So you cannot only see several biblical motifs, but also the “foolish virgins”, a “dumpling eating woman” and a rare hunting scene.

Hocheppan castle tavern

The rustic castle tavern is ideal for a small snack after visiting the castle or during an excursion. Inspired by the precious frescos in the chapel, the main focus in the menu is on the delicious South Tyrolean dumplings. As well, the menu includes classics such as the “Brettlmarende” (a typical local snack) and homemade sweets.

Castle hike & archery

If you rather place importance on the sporting aspect of a trip in the environs of Eppan, we also recommend you the Hocheppan Castle, because you can reach it on foot. The hike through the forest takes about 20 minutes and starts on the car park below the castle. Up there you’ll have a wonderful view to valleys and mountains of Southern South Tyrol and beyond it.

The woods in the environs of Hocheppan Castle invite you to take a comfortable rest and take you to a journey back to the Middle Ages. This is ensured not least by the medieval archery trail in the environs of Hocheppan castle.