Gardena Castle is located between Santa Cristina and Selva Gardena, in South Tyrol (Alto Adige). Although of Renaissance origin and built as a summer and hunting residence, its massive structure gives it the appearance of a medieval fortress. The original name “Fischburg” – meaning “fish castle” – comes from the ponds created by its owner for raising and catching trout. Today the castle belongs to the family of Baron Andrea Franchetti and is not open to the public.
History of Gardena Castle
Gardena Castle was built by the Wolkenstein family between 1622 and 1641, originally as a residential estate. It later served as the seat of the Selva court until the late 18th century, after which the manor entered a long period of decline. In 1826 the Wolkenstein‑Trostburg family auctioned off their properties, and in 1841 the castle was donated to the municipalities of Selva and Santa Cristina, who, by assigning it to the poor, inadvertently condemned it to ruin. In 1926 the castle was purchased and restored by Baron Franchetti, a noted Africanist and father of Afdera, the fascinating woman who captured Hemingway’s heart.
The castle is still inhabited by the family during the summer months, so it can only be admired from the outside. During the summer, as part of the Valgardenamusika festival, the castle gardens occasionally host small concerts.
For futher Information:
Gardena Castle
Vallunga - 39048 Selva Val Gardena
Tel. (+39) 0471 777 900
