Ossana Castle, also known as San Michele Castle, is one of the most striking fortresses in the Val di Sole. Standing on a rocky spur above the village of Ossana, the castle impresses with its strategic, unassailable position and its 25‑metre‑high square keep, one of the best preserved in Trentino.
History of Ossana Castle
The origins of the castle likely date back to the Lombard period (6th century), although the first written record appears in 1191. Thanks to its strategic location, the fortress was contested over the centuries by several noble families: the bishops of Trento, the Counts of Tyrol, the De Federicis family, the Heydorf and the Bertelli.
In the 16th century the castle suffered heavy damage during the Peasants’ War, while during the Napoleonic occupation it was used as a military garrison. Between the 19th and 20th centuries, one of its co‑owners was Bertha von Suttner, Nobel Peace Prize laureate in 1905.
The castle today
Today Ossana Castle belongs to the Autonomous Province of Trento and, after extensive restoration work, has been open to visitors since 1996. It is now one of the most iconic attractions in the Val di Sole, ideal for discovering medieval architecture, panoramic views and local history.
For further information
APT Val di Sole, Pejo and Rabbi
Viale Marconi, 7 - Malè
Tel: +39 0463 901280
Ossana's castle
Via al Castello
38026 Ossana (TN)
Tel: 340 4183540
