Bolzano is full of charm thanks to its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Surrounded by the majestic Dolomites, the city attracts outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Majestic peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green valleys make it a paradise for tourists, who can take the cable car.
Its historic center, with its charming medieval architecture and vibrant squares, is a delight. Bolzano Cathedral, with its Gothic and Romanesque elements, invites visitors to explore. At the South Tyrolean Museum of Archaeology, you can see the famous Ötzi, a 5,300-year-old mummy discovered in the nearby Ötztal Alps. The Bolzano Christmas Market is the perfect place for holiday shopping, and the Bolzano Music Festival attracts artists and connoisseurs from around the world.
Location
Bolzano, the capital of Trentino Alto Adige Province of Bolzano – South Tyrol in Italy.
Val d’Adige
Bolzano located in a beautiful valley, the Val d’Adige. Surrounded by mountains, it is also a meeting point between two different culturese. The highest point of the town of Bolzano can be found on the 1,616 m high Mt. Pozza.
Located high above valleys, many are the alpine inns and mountain huts that have some great views of the Dolomites. A rich culinary tradition, a wealth of unspoilt nature against the backdrop of the imposing mountains.
Bolzano Cathedral
The Cathedral of Bolzano( The Assumption of Mary) was built in the 16th century and is located in the heart of Bolzano. Romanesque and Gothic architecture, Cathedral is a showpiece of the town’s medieval centre and main square, the Walther Square.
The Cathedral Treasury (Domschatzkammer) is located in the old provostry in the Old Town of Bolzano, whose origins date back to 1275 AD. Known as one of the most extensive Baroque church inventories in the Tyrol region, it houses beautiful 18th-century goldsmith works, liturgical vestments, and Baroque pieces, including impressive processional banners.
South Tyrol Archeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum, located at the beginning of the pedestrian zone in Bolzano’s old town, offers various special exhibitions and an interactive permanent exhibition dedicated to the life of the famous Iceman. On the ground floor, the story of the Iceman’s discovery is told, and his original costumes and equipment provide insight into life in the Copper Age. On the second floor, research findings from the last 30 years are presented: what did Ötzi eat? And was he really murdered?
Museion
The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art Bolzano/Bozen in South Tyrol is an architecturally distinctive cubic structure that stands out from the city.
The Museion houses the largest collection of modern and contemporary art in South Tyrol, with over 4,600 works of art. Works from the collection are presented on a rotating basis, alongside solo exhibitions by leading contemporary artists and projects by young and emerging, often local, artists. Accompanying events and social events take place weekly.
Waltherplatz
Waltherplatz, or Walther Square is the vibrant heart of Bolzano. Strolling through this historic square, you’ll encounter a statue of Walther von der Vogelweide, the famous medieval singer. Surrounding the square are beautifully preserved buildings showcasing stunning examples of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
The square often bustles with activity, hosting a variety of events, markets, and festivals throughout the year.
Mareccio Castle
Maretsch Castle (Castel Mareccio) is a castle located in the historic center of Bolzano. The Castle goes back to the 13th century, the Mareccio family were vassals to the Count of Tyrol. During the 14th century, what used to be a small residential palace was then expanded and became a majestic property.
The current architecture of the castle can be linked mainly to the Modern epoch. Its special historic atmosphere in the green setting of Bolzano offers you peace and quiet, and yet it is also centrally located and easy to reach.
Runkelstein Castle
Runkelstein Castle is located near Bolzano, on a rock overlooking the Talvera River, at the mouth of the Val Sarentino valley. The complex consists of the castle itself and the extensive district below.
A parking area for cars and bicycles is located at the foot of the castle. Built in 1237 on a protruding cliff, the castle has been rebuilt and expanded several times. It boasts a collection of beautiful frescoes depicting scenes of courtly life, hunting, jousting, and everyday life. The castle regularly hosts interesting cultural events, occasionally enlivening the halls and Roncolo’s manor. The restaurant offers the opportunity to sample local cuisine in a medieval setting.
Victory Monument
Built between 1926 and 1928, the Victory Monument was designed to celebrate Italy’s victory in World War I. The Fascist Government wanted it built in order to celebrate the victory of the Italian army over the Austro-Hungarian Empire during the First World War. It still carries the obvious fascist symbolism.
Behind the monument is a park which leads on to Piazza Vittoria (Victory Square) surrounded by monumental buildings in rational style.
Sigmundskron Castle
Sigmundskron Castle lies south of the city of Bolzano. It was cited as early as 945 AD as the site of a military engagement between noblemen from north and south of the Apls.
The castle has two baileys, separated by a large rock. On this rock are the ruins of a Romanesque chapel (with traces of frescoes from ca. 1100 until the 14th century) and the episcopal palace dating back to the 12th century.
Franciscan Monastery
The medieval church and monastery are located in the heart of the city, surrounded by a high wall. The complex was built in the 14th century in the Gothic style and features beautiful frescoes from the school of Giotto.
