Pergine Castle

Because of its strategic position guarding the Via Claudia Augusta Altinate, Historians use to think Pergine Castle rises on the site of an old prehistoric fortress, which later became a Roman settlement; later on, it was transformed into a Longobard stronghold.

Erected in the 13th century, it belonged to the Dukes of Austria, under the reign of Margarete Maultasch, and then to the Emperor Maximilian I. In 1531, it became the property of the Prince-Bishop of Trento Bernardo Cles.

In about 1900 it was sold to a German company and underwent some rather hasty refurbishment, which had it turned into a hotel and restaurant. In 1956 it was bought by Mario Oss and still belongs to his family today.The castle boasts two surrounding walls: a Medieval part, comprising the defensive features, such as the keep and the towers, and the Renaissance residential quarters.

A very unusual historical and architectural highlight is the huge octagonal pillar supporting the vaulted ceiling of the entrance hall. Other interesting features include, the so-called Prigione della goccia (Prison of the Drop) and the Camera del camino (the Fireplace Room), which is notorious - popular legends have it that the ghost of a mysterious lady in white is used to appear there. The Sala del trono (Throne Room) and the Chapel of St. Andrew on the first floor are also worth of seeing. The five rooms on the second floor and the garden are used as exhibition venues.

References:

• Trentino Cultura

Address

Via al Castello 21, Pergine Valsugana, Italy

Details

Founded: 13th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in Italy