Kastelbell Castle

The castle hill of Kastelbell was already settled in the early Bronze Age (2200–1600 BC). Recovered parts of ceramic vessels indicate influences of the Polada culture, which spread from Upper Italy via the Eisacktal and Etschtal valleys. The castle was built by the Lords of Montalban, who, as a Welf noble family, were among the vassals of the Counts of Tyrol. After 1200, it came into their possession. The oldest documented mention dates from 1238. From 1531, it was a pledge fief of the Counts Hendl, who had the castle expanded to its current form. After fires in the 19th century, the building fell into ruin. In 1956, it was acquired by the Italian state and extensively restored from 1987 to 1995. Since 1999, it has been managed by the Kuratorium Schloss Kastelbell. In 2008, the Italian state transferred ownership to the Province of South Tyrol. The castle is used for cultural events such as exhibitions and concerts and is open to the public.