Fiè allo Sciliar
Welcome to Castelrotto, the most populous municipality in the Dolomites!
If you are looking for a mountain vacation destination, Castelrotto could be the perfect choice! Located at the foot of the Alpe di Siusi, the municipality of Castelrotto offers breathtaking views, fascinating history, and a strategic location for winter or summer sports. With its 6,868 inhabitants, Castelrotto is the most populous municipality in the Dolomites and the second most populous in the entire Italian Alpine arc.
The origin of the name and history
The toponym "Castelrotto" is first attested in 982-987 as "Castelruptum" and in 1173 as "Castilrut." Throughout its history, Castelrotto has been owned by several noble families, including the lords of Castelrotto in the 13th century, Duke Konrad Teck in 1348, and the Hauenstein family in the 15th century.
An important figure in Castelrotto's history is Michael Kraus, a Hungarian nobleman who became the owner of the area through marriage. Kraus was famous for the wealth accumulated from his fiefs and for the charitable works he extended to the poor of Castelrotto before his death, establishing a traditional distribution of bread and salt to every poor person in the community every October. Kraus was buried in the chapel of the tower, where his tomb still exists today.
In 1607, Jakob Kraus, Michael's nephew, was ennobled by Emperor Rudolf II of Habsburg and was largely responsible for the demolition of the ancient castle, replacing it with a chapel dedicated to Saint Anthony and a natural park with seven small chapels and three large crucifixes depicting some stations of the cross.
Until 1924, Castelrotto also had its own district court, which was then transferred to Chiusa.
The strategic position of Castelrotto
Thanks to its location at the foot of the Alpe di Siusi, Castelrotto is an ideal destination for those who love winter or summer sports. In winter, skiing and snowboarding can be practiced on the Alpe di Siusi, while in summer, the area offers trails for hiking and biking.
The beauty of the Sciliar Natural Park
Not only is Castelrotto located at the foot of the Alpe di Siusi, but a part of its municipal territory is also within the Sciliar Natural Park. This park offers breathtaking views of the Sciliar massif and the Dolomites, as well as the opportunity to spot a wide range of fauna and flora, including eagles, chamois, and marmots.
The atmosphere of the market municipality
Despite its size, Castelrotto is a market municipality that offers a wide range of shops and services. The historic center of Castelrotto is charming with its traditional houses and the parish church of San Michele, which dates back to the 15th century. Every Saturday, a weekly market is held in the main square of the village, where traditional food products of the Alto Adige, local crafts, and souvenirs can be purchased.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Castelrotto is a must-visit destination for anyone wishing to enjoy the natural beauty of the Dolomites and the Alto Adige. With its strategic location and rich history and culture, Castelrotto is a place that will not disappoint. Come and visit us and discover all that Castelrotto has to offer!
