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Castle · Bolzano, Trentino-Alto Ádige
Castel Roncolo
Castle from 1237 on a rock spur at the entrance to the Val Sarentino, with the largest cycle of medieval non-religious frescoes in Europe, including the legend of Tristan and Isolde.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Castel Roncolo
Castel Roncolo, Schloss Runkelstein in German, was built in 1237 by the lords of Wangen on a rock at the entrance to the Val Sarentino, north of Bolzano. In 1385 it was bought by the brothers Niklaus and Franz Vintler, wealthy merchants of the town, who turned it into a summer residence and commissioned the rooms to be covered with frescoes.
The frescoes are the reason to visit. They form the largest medieval cycle of non-religious painting in Europe and depict the world of the court: tournaments, hunts, dances, games, fashion and the best-known legends of the time, such as Tristan and Isolde and King Arthur. In the West Palace are the scenes of courtly love and leisure; in the Summer House, historical and legendary figures.
At the end of the 19th century the castle passed to Emperor Franz Joseph, who had it restored and donated it to the city of Bolzano. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with shorter hours in winter and a pause in January; check before you go. There is an audio guide via an app and a restaurant in the courtyard.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1h30 to 2h, plus travel time.
Best time
In the morning or mid-afternoon. The walk along the Talvera riverbank is more pleasant in spring and autumn. The castle is closed on Mondays.
How to get there
On foot, about 30 minutes from the center along the Talvera riverbank. By bus, line 12 on weekdays and 14 on Sundays and public holidays, from the Piazza Walther. From the stop or the car park at the foot of the castle it's a 5–10 minute uphill walk; cars can't reach the door.
Tip
Wear comfortable shoes for the final climb. Download the audio guide beforehand via the QR code at the entrance, and look for the Tristan and Isolde rooms in the Summer House.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Castel Roncolo
What is special about the frescoes at Castel Roncolo?
They form the largest medieval cycle of non-religious painting in Europe, with scenes of court life and legends such as Tristan and Isolde.
Can you walk there from the center?
Yes. The walk along the Talvera riverbank takes about 30 minutes and ends with a short climb up to the castle.
On which days is the castle open?
From Tuesday to Sunday, with a winter break in January. Confirm opening times before you go.
Is there somewhere to eat at the castle?
Yes, there is an osteria in the courtyard, which can be combined with a visit.