Reifenstein Castle at Sterzing

The medieval side of Sterzing-Ratschings in South Tyrol

Castel Reifenstein in Freienfeld near Sterzing is one of the best preserved castles in South Tyrol. It is well protected on a rocky hill and can only be reached by a pleasant, short hiking trail. Until the middle of the 13th century the episcopal ministries resided on the castle and managed the surrounding countryside from here. In 1469 it has been taken over by the Teutonic Order, which it helt until the dissolution by Napoleon in 1809. Afterwards the family Thurn and Taxis became the new owners, which they're still today. The castle can be visited.

Discover the castle

Particularly worth seeing are the smoke kitchen, the sleeping quarters for the soldiers and domestics, the green hall with it’s decorated walls of beautiful frescoes, the torture chamber, an underground dungeon and also the nearby St. Zeno church.

Sightseeing hours and accessibility

Reifenstein Castle is located on a small hill 2 km southwest of Sterzing, in the village of Elzenbaum. It can be reached via a pleasant, short hiking trail.

More information & opening hours

Forts Reifenstein Castle
closed opens on Fri at 10:00

Freienfeld / Campo di Trens

details

Guided town tours

Discover Sterzing in Southtyrol with our guide, who will take you to a bygone era and will tell you in detail about the development of the alpine town. From the history through the various architectural styles, the relics of mining and the influences of the various eras. Guided town tours are available from early May to late October every Friday.

Meeting point: 4.00 pm, in front of the Sterzing tourist office at Stadtplatz, the main square of the town; duration 1 hour.

Guided tours are held only in German or Italian.

Culture & sights in Sterzing

Experience historic buildings, museums and charming squares and immerse yourself in the rich history of Sterzing.

Culture & sights