Description of the attraction
The impressive Heinfels Castle is one of the main cultural attractions of this ski area, located in the eastern part of the Alta Pusteria Valley, which is mostly located in Italy. The imposing ruins of the castle, located above Pantzendorf near the town of Sillian, rise not only over the Val Pusteria valley, but also over the Val Kartitz valley lying opposite. You can climb here along a small road and several hiking trails.
Heinfels Castle was built over several centuries, and the oldest parts date back to the 13th century. The central part of this medieval defensive structure consists of a 20-meter tower and an adjoining room. The western wing of the castle is the largest and best preserved. It is in it that a room with stucco decoration dating from the 18th century is located - this is the so-called Rittersaal.
In the 13th century, Heinfels Castle was owned by the Lords of Hortius, who founded their military base here. After the last representative of this noble family died in 1500, the castle became the property of Emperor Maximilian I, who was forced to give it to the Bishop of Bressanone. And soon after that, the castle again changed owners - this time they were the Lords of Volkenstein-Trostburg. In 1613, most of the building was destroyed in a terrible fire. Subsequently, the Trostburgs sold the castle to the state, and that, in turn, transferred it to the municipality of Heinfels. In 1977, the castle became private property.
Round and rectangular watchtowers, an impressive keep, courtyard and 38 embrasures have survived to this day from the once imposing Heinfels Castle. Also well preserved are the so-called guard posts, which did not allow enemies to climb the walls.
