Caldes and the castle: a village in the province of Trento in the heart of the Val di Sole

Caldes is one of the municipalities of Val di Sole, a Trentino valley located between the Brenta Dolomites and the Adamello. The location is typically mountainous with wooden and stone houses, narrow streets and breathtaking views. The parish church is dedicated to St. Bartholomew, the patron saint. The symbol of the municipality is the castle, called Castel Caldes, of medieval origin. It was mainly used for the control of commercial traffic in the valley. Since the twentieth century it has been owned by the province of Trento and has been restored to host events and exhibitions. Inside, some frescoes and furniture from the time are still visible, but it is the legend of Olinda that is closely linked to the castle. In fact, it seems that Olinda was locked up by her father in the highest tower of the castle to oppose her love with a humble minstrel. After a few years the young woman dies and the room that was her prison is still visible. Inside you can see a video explaining the construction of the castle which from the outside does not resemble the usual castles of the collective imagination, but more like a stately home.