The imposing manor stands in Castelbello-Ciardes, perched on a hill on the left bank of the Adige River. After long and meticulous restoration work, Castelbello has been brought back to life, is open to visitors, and hosts numerous cultural events.
Castelbello, also known as Schloss Kastelbell, was built in 1238 on a rocky spur in the village of the same name in Val Venosta by the powerful Lords of Montalban.
Following the defeat suffered by the Montalban at the hands of the Counts of Tyrol, the splendid manor passed into the latter’s possession until 1531; it was then taken over by the Hendl family, who carried out a series of modifications and extensions to the building, many of which are still visible today.
Between 1813 and 1824, Castelbello was devastated by repeated fires, and the Hendl restored only the residential part, leaving the rest to fall into ruin. In 1956, the Italian State purchased the castle for 31,068 lire. Urgent restoration work began in the 1960s and continued until 1995.
Since 1999, the fortress has been entrusted by the municipality of Castelbello-Ciardes to the “Curatorio Castello di Castelbello Società Cooperativa,” which is responsible for its management, preservation, and use for cultural events.
Access to Castelbello is through the Romanesque-style gate leading to the picturesque courtyard, characterized by stairways and arches of various sizes. In the southern wing lies the manor’s ancient kitchen with its stone-paved floor and a beautiful stone hearth rising at its center. On the first floor of the northern wing is the 14th-century chapel, with the remains of Romanesque frescoes depicting religious and natural themes, as well as the coats of arms of the Tyrol and Hendl families.
Today, Castelbello Castle is open to the public and offers its spaces for concerts, seminars, theatrical performances, exhibitions, and other events. Guided tours are available upon request.
The castle is usually open for guided tours during the summer months, from July to September. For up-to-date information on dates, opening hours, and events, we recommend visiting the official website.
For further information
Associazione Turistica Castelbello - Ciardes
Via Statale 5
Tel.: +39 0473 624193
