Art & history

… behind thick walls

Planned in the 19th century under Emperor Franz Josef as a strategic fortification, the mighty building today serves art and culture.

Most of you probably know the Franzensfeste Fortress from passing it by car or train, on your way to or from the Brenner Pass. The imposing construction takes up an area of approximately 1 km² and consists of three different parts. The fortress was built with the aim of controlling the way from north to south. 4,500 workers built the facility in a very short time, between 1833 and 1839. Luckily, it has never been the scene of armed conflicts – despite its capacity to hold 1,200 men.

Today you can explore the impressive building that encompasses an armoury, a gold bunker, and an underground tunnel which connects the lower and the upper fortress. There are also always interesting exhibitions inside the fortress. The fact that in 1943 the Nazis stored a huge amount of gold here, which is still considered lost today, is a story that is often told, but could never be proven.

Who knows, maybe there is a small grain of truth in this legend? In any case, your holiday in South Tyrol with children will be the ultimate adventure!

Have a thrilling visit!
The Pabst family from Family Home Alpenhof.

31.08.2020

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