Castel Pergine

Castel Pergine, the gateway to the Valsugana and once a Roman settlement, was expanded and converted into a medieval castle in the 13th century. Before coming into the possession of Emperor Maximilian I, the castle had been in the hands of Margaret of Tyrol, known as Maultasch, for a long time. As Bernardo Clesio, Cardinal of Trento, was appointed judge of Pergine in 1531, the fortress became a property of the prince-bishops of Trento. In 1901, Ferdinand Putz from Bavaria acquired and renovated the castle. Its successive owner, the Swiss Mario Oss who bought the fortress in 1956, converted a part of it into a hotel with restaurant, whereas another part of the castle was arranged as a cultural spot, accessible to everyone.

The fireplace room (Camera del Camino), the throne room (Sala del Trono), and the so-called drop prison (Prigione della Goccia), where prisoners' hands and necks were tied with straps while water was constantly dropping on their heads, are three historically important attractions. Since 2022, the chapel of St. Andrew (Cappella di Sant'Andrea), another valuable gem, houses a precious ancient altarpiece from the 16th century, which was found and restored only a few years ago. The first floor of the palace, as well as the castle park enclosed by the curtain wall, are both open to the public.

In November 2018, the castle was acquired by the "Fondazione Castel Pergine Onlus" and was the first historic and cultural monument in Italy to become a public property. Today it is complete with a hotel and restaurant. Every year, the foundation organises an exhibition, as well as cultural events, such as concerts and theatre performances.