Traditional and Modern Architecture

TRAUTTMANSDORFF CASTLE

The architecture centerpiece of the Gardens is the magnificent castle, which dates back to medieval times. Neuberg Castle was first referenced in documents from around 1300 AD. The original walls are still visible on the southwest side of the castle, including a crypt that was built contemporaneously. A room of frescoes has survived from the Renaissance.

Count Joseph von Trauttmansdorff expanded the dilapidated castle in the neo-Gothic style to its present size in the middle of the 19th century. Trauttmansdorff Castle is thus considered to be on of the earliest Tyrol’s neo-Gothic castles. The next owner, Baron Friedrich von Deutser, converted the castle’s east wing into a huge neo-Rococo room; this was quite a fundamental change to the form of the castle.

The castle, which had been neglected in the years following the World Wars, was renovated between 2000 and 2003. The façade, chapel, crypt, great Rococo hall, and the second floor – which had been Empress Elisabeth’s living quarters – were all refurbished; the wood paneling and paintings were restored as well. Today, Trauttmansdorff Castle houses the Touriseum, South Tyrol’s regional museum of tourism.

MODERN ARCHITECTURE

Visitors’ Centre: young architects from South Tyrol designed this building with the Gardens’ philosophy in mind. Their use of Deckenillustrationen underscores the idea of minimally invasive interaction with nature – interpreted here in a successful fusion of art and nature.

Restaurant: the light-flooded rooms of the modern restaurant adjacent to the castle provide a counterpoint to the imposing architecture of the old manor house. The harmonious atmosphere exudes lightness and transparency; this is also reflected in the Mediterranean-influenced South Tyrolean cuisine.