Attractions in the Meraner Land area

The castle, whose earliest construction dates back to the 11th century, lies at the origin of the name of the Land of Tyrol, which arose in the 13th century. The art-historical treasures of the castle stem from these years of economic and cultural prosperity. There are two ornate marble portals as well as a chapel with frescoes from the 13th century. The castle is also home to the South Tyrolean Museum of Culture and History. In addition to the permanent exhibition, temporary exhibitions are held each year.
Right next to Castle Tyrol on the hill is the Castle Tyrol bird care centre. An educational trail shows visitors the fascinating life of birds of prey as an important link in the natural cycle. There is at least one bird show every day. A great experience, especially for kids.
www.schloss-tirol.it

In 2005, the botanical gardens of Trautmansdorff Castle were awarded the title of “most beautiful gardens in Italy”. Covering over twelve hectares, they offer visitors the chance to experience “the whole world in a garden”. Exotic ornamental plants from the Mediterranean regions thrive here along with hardy Alpine plants.
The gardens are arranged according to the complex interplay of the natural vegetation, the climate, people and location. There are 11 pavilions providing a comprehensive botanical overview, while the castle dominates the surrounding gardens. Count Trauttmansdorff had it rebuilt from its medieval ruins, and the Austrian Empress Sissi twice stayed here for her winter cure. It has now been converted into a museum that portrays the lively 200-year history of tourism in South Tyrol.
www.trauttmansdorff.it

Over 5,000 years ago, a man climbed to the icy heights of the Schnalstal glacier, where he died. In 1991 he was found, along with his clothes and other gear, mummified and frozen – an archaeological sensation and a unique snapshot of Copper Age man. After several years’ examination by highly specialised teams, the mummy and the accompanying finds are now accessible to the public at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology. In addition to housing the remains of the Iceman, the Archaeology Museum also documents the pre- and early history of South Tyrol, from the end of the last Ice Age to the time of Charlemagne. The museum offers an exciting excursion into Alpine prehistory with models, reconstructions, stereoscopic images, videos and interactive multimedia stations all offering a rich and entertaining insight into the past.
www.iceman.it/de

The Therme Meran (spa and baths complex) is the place for health and well-being in South Tyrol. The emphasis is on recovery, adventure and preventive medicine and therapy. Natural products from South Tyrol feature prominently throughout – from the Bistro to the applications in the Spa & Vital area.
www.thermemeran.it