MERANO

Merano, which is in a valley surrounded by 1500-3335 m high mountains, was first mentioned in 857 as Mairana, although a settlement at this location already existed in Roman times. The place looks back on a long tradition as a spa and resort. In the 19th Century great interest was shown in Merano. Scientists and doctors praised the mild climate and the place became a health resort. A short time later it was on everyone’s lips and became synonymous for relaxation and healing. Merano became the most popular destination for Central European nobility. Not only the Habsburgs, but also of the Prussian, English, French and Russian nobility cherished the place. In Merano, we recommend a visit to the Trauttmansdorf, located in the east of the city. It is known for the visits of the Austrian Empress Elisabeth ("Sissi"). In 1870 and 1889, she held court for several weeks in the top floor of the castle. In 1300 a small castle, the Neuburg, was built on the grounds of the present castle. In 1543 it was bought by the noble family Trauttmansdorf and over the years steadily expanded and developed. After World War I a buyer was sought for the castle but not being sold by 1977, it fell into the hands of the South Tyrolean provincial administration. The new botanic gardens were built in 1990 in the former palace grounds and in 2005 it was recognized as "the most beautiful garden of Italy".

BOLZANO

Bolzano, the present capital of South Tyrol, was also founded as a Roman settlement. The city is divided into five districts, which in turn comprise several past neighbourhoods and former independent communities. The historic Bolzano consisted only of today's Old City, which is the area between Zollstange and Wangergasse. Nevertheless, most inhabitants of Bolzano lived in the historic part. In the basin of Bolzano today we find 40 castles, the highest density in Europe. Many of these are ruined; some like Runkelstein Castle, the Haselburg or Maretsch Castle were rebuilt into palaces in the Gothic and Renaissance style.

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