Stenico Castle

The castle of Stenico is located in the homonymous village in western Trentino; it is the testimony of the importance that this place has had in the past. The Castle dates back to the 12th century, so it is an early medieval fortification, but it is linked to a pre-existing prehistoric castle, since the area where it rests is highly strategic since it controls the territory west of Trento. It is considered a symbol of the power of the Prince Bishops of Trento, who from the thirteenth century became their property and summer residence. Over the centuries, Princes and Captains embellished the Castle in the most disparate ways, and this contributed to enrich its charm. Buildings and courtyards follow one another surrounded by the walls to the south and enclosed by the robust external curtain to the north. The Romanesque palace overlooks the external courtyard. The chapel of S. Martino contains a valuable cycle of sacred frescoes from the Romanesque school. Also noteworthy is the room of the Black Fireplace and that of the medallions with allegorical figures. Also worth seeing inside is the important archaeological section of local history, an exhibition of furniture, frescoes, weapons and ancient tools, coming from the collections of the Castello del Buonconsiglio Museum in Trento, of which Castel Stenico is a branch.