Hocheppan Castle
Hocheppan Castle Chapel
The Castle Chapel in the south of the Hocheppan castle complex, also known as the Sistine Chapel of the Alps, truly bears witness to bygone days. Although it was consecrated in the Middle Ages, in 1131, both its architecture and the paintings that it contains have been almost completely and very well preserved. The Romanesque frescoes from the 13th century show typical motifs from the time when the castle was built, such as a hunting scene, or the famous “dumpling eater”. There are also frescoes with scenes from the life of Christ and the Apostles, which are among the best-preserved in Tyrol. That we can marvel at them today is thanks to the fact that they were uncovered in 1926, after having been painted over for many centuries.
Location
Situated high above the Etsch Valley, Hocheppan Castle has a unique view from the Ötztal Alps to the Dolomites and to the provincial capital of Bozen.
Architectural style and special features
Hocheppan Castle combines the beauty of the landscape with the romance of a medieval castle complex. The keep with its pentagonal shape, which at times dates back to the 12th century, is impressive. The highlight in terms of art history is the castle chapel of Hocheppan with its valuable Romanesque fresco cycle. It is also called the "Sistine Chapel of the Alps".
Burgschenke Hocheppan
The Burgschenke Hocheppan is open daily between 10.00 am and 6.00 pm (closed on Wednesdays). The menu focuses on the typical South Tyrolean dumplings, matching the frescoes in the Romanesque castle chapel depicting the so-called "dumpling eater". In addition to this tasty Tyrolean dish, there are classics such as Brettlmarende, goulash, polenta and homemade cakes. Various theme weeks spoil visitors with seasonal culinary delicacies. A selection of exquisite Eppan wines and refreshing drinks for the thirsty hiker is of course not to be missed.
Archery course
The 3D archery course with its 28 different 3D-animals guarantees excitement and medieval fun for the whole family. Also suitable for beginners and children from 6 years upwards!It takes about 3 hours to complete the entire archery course.Prices: Bow course € 10,00 | Bow course incl. rental of bow and arrow € 20,00
Art-historical guided tours
The Hocheppan Castle Chapel and the castle itself can be visited as part of a guided tour from Thursday to Sunday between 11.00 am and 4.00 pm.
History
The castle was built by Count Ulrich II around 1130 and was even then one of the most powerful noble seats in the country. It was destroyed in 1158, but rebuilt a short time later. In 1315 it was handed over to the sovereigns of Tyrol and has changed hands several times since then. From 1911 until 2016, Hocheppan Castle was owned by the Counts of Enzenberg. In 2016, the municipality of Eppan purchased the castle. Among the numerous preserved castles in South Tyrol, Hocheppan is undoubtedly one of the most impressive witnesses to the Middle Ages, thanks to its special location and beauty.
The Tyrolean dumpling
The oldest evidence of Tyrolean dumplings can be found on a 12th century fresco in the chapel: Maria is watching a maid sitting in front of a pan of round dumplings, eating one with relish.
