The Castello Principesco (Prince’s castle) lies in Merano, in a very particular position. In fact, it wasn’t built on the top of a hill or a mountain like it used to be done, but in the center of the city. Erected by Archduke Sigismund of Austria around 1470 at the foot of Kuechelberg Mountain as the state residence, this castle served the princes of Tyrol as the seat of their government. The Castle never had the function of fortification, and dates from the second half of the 15th century. Initially it was a part of the cellars of the Prince and was only around 1470 that was entirely rebuilt and used as a residence.It was also occasionally inhabited by Emperor Maximilian and by the family of Emperor Ferdinand I of Austria. The castle remained a royal residence throughout the sixteenth century; by the seventeenth century, masses held in the chapel were the only use. In 1875 the Castello Principesco was bought by the municipality of Merano/Meran,which wanted to destroy it: anyway, both inhabitants and tourists protested and managed to dissuade it. In 1878, the city started to renovate the castle, with the aim of recreating its original late-gothic charm.The castle is thus the ideal place to study the way of life in the late Medieval period. In 1880, the castle was opened to the public. The castle today, after several restorations by the town of Meran, is fully furnished with antique furniture and works of art, in line with what should be the real appearance of the castle in his periods of splendor. Unfortunately I could only take pictures from outside and in the courtyard inside: for mysterious reasons it was forbidden to take pictures inside the rooms. If the director didn't want to jeopardize the money he gets from photographic service for marriages, he foolishly gives up that from tourists. Thanks for your kind comments.