Michlsburg, Medieval castle in San Lorenzo di Sebato, Italy
Michlsburg is a medieval castle positioned on a rocky hillside at approximately 956 meters elevation, featuring two adjacent towers and fortified walls enclosing a central courtyard. The structure exhibits typical medieval construction with thick stone walls and narrow openings designed for defense.
The fortress was founded in 1165 and initially belonged to the Prince-Bishops of Brixen. Over the centuries, it changed hands multiple times, eventually coming under the control of the Kunigl family.
The castle once served as a rural courthouse where judges representing the Counts of Gorizia held trials and rendered verdicts. People from the surrounding region came here to have their cases heard in court.
The castle remains privately owned and is not regularly open to the public for visits. Those interested in viewing the interior should contact the owners in advance to arrange a guided tour or request special access.
The name Michlsburg comes from the medieval German word 'michel' meaning large or grand, not from Saint Michael as people often believe. The name was chosen to reflect the impressive size and strength of the fortress.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.