Castle Summersberg

Castle Summersberg is a medieval fortress in Gufidaun south of Klausen, featuring a distinctive round tower and palace buildings constructed from natural stone. The complex overlooks the Isarco Valley and displays typical defensive and residential elements from the period of its construction.

The fortress was built starting around 1210 and underwent major expansions in 1329 under the rule of local authority Georg von Villanders. These construction phases transformed it into a stronger administrative and defensive base for the region.

The name refers to summer pastures that once dotted this region. Today visitors can observe how the medieval structure sits within the landscape as a reminder of the area's pastoral past.

The castle is privately owned, so access is restricted and available mainly through organized guided tours or during cultural events. Planning ahead is helpful to learn about current visiting opportunities and to arrange any necessary access.

The oldest section is a 14th-century round structure known as the Witch Tower, which stands distinctly apart from the later additions to the complex. This tower demonstrates early defensive design techniques that were typical of its era.

Location: Klausen

Inception: 1330

GPS coordinates: 46.64867,11.60341

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:28