Hocheppan Castle, Medieval fortress in Missian, Italy
Hocheppan is a castle ruin near Missian in South Tyrol that stands high above the Wine Road region. The remaining stone walls and distinctive pentagonal watchtower define this medieval fortress's appearance.
The fortress was built around 1125 and served Count Ulrich II of Eppan as a strategic stronghold. It was destroyed in 1158 during Henry the Lion's military campaign.
The castle chapel displays Romanesque frescoes showing religious scenes and representations of everyday moments, including an unusual depiction of a woman eating dumplings.
The path to the castle leads through a forested trail that takes about 20 minutes on foot from the parking area near Missian. Sturdy shoes and water are recommended for the climb.
The watchtower served not only as a defensive structure but also as a signal point where guards lit fires to warn nearby settlements of approaching threats. This early alert system connected multiple fortresses across the region.
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