Castello di Monreale
CASTELLO DI MONREALE S. MICHELE A. A. With its graceful and crenellated profile against the backdrop of the mountains, the Monreale castle takes on a peculiar, undoubtedly fascinating, appearance. But if approached from the rear, its appearance changes: a coursely built hexagonal tower, only three sides of which project from the walls, clearly proclaims its defensive purpose. Probably built as a military stronghold, it controlled the Adige way and the road from the valley floor to the Valle di Cembra, crossing the towns of Faedo and Giovo. A fief of the Appiano lords, it later became the property of the Counts of Tyrol, the Habsburgs and, lastly, the Rubin de Cervin - Albrizzi family; in its eventful history it suffered radical alterations and its present aspect is the result of many transformations and additions made through the centuries. The oldest parts are the keep guarding the entrance to the town. The inner courtyard, at the centre of which there is a wellhead, is surrounded by elegant facades with mullioned windows and the private chapel has some 16th century frescoes. Today it is a private property (an agricultural concern), but may be visited (subject to prior application to the proprietors).
Information
Telephone 0461.651013 - Ass.ne Pro Loco S. Michele all'Adige