User Reviews
Matzen Castle has ancient origins, dating back to Roman times when the outpost of Masciacum was established to protect the Roman road through the Inn Valley. The stone castle we see today began taking shape in the 12th century in Romanesque style and was first mentioned in 1167, then owned by the Knights of Frundsberg. During their ownership, the castle went through two Romanesque construction phases and a later Gothic expansion that significantly enlarged the structure.
In 1521, the castle passed to the Fieger family, who transformed Matzen into a grand residential palace. They added elegant arcades connecting the wings, which gave the courtyards their distinctive charm. Between 1658 and 1684, owner Matthias Pock built the chapel, originally designed in the late Gothic style.
Matzen was later damaged by fire and fell into ruin. In 1873, it was rescued from decay by Irish noblewoman Fanny Reade of Mount Heaton-Grohmann. In 2008, new owners took over and carried out a full restoration.
Today, Schloss Matzen is considered one of the most historic sites in Tyrol. It's known for its Romanesque Bergfried (a unique, tapering tower not found elsewhere in Northern Tyrol), its perimeter walls, and multiple arcaded courtyards.
Inside, visitors can admire the Gothic chapel with its Baroque altar, a barrel-vaulted Knight’s Hall with a grand fireplace, and a library featuring antique hunting trophies.
Surrounding the castle is the 200,000-square-meter Matzenpark, one of Tyrol’s most beautiful and significant natural monuments. Just below the castle lies Gut Matzen, offering guests a charming restaurant, café, and romantic garden terrace.
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