Berneck Castle, a timeless ode to the Middle Ages, rises majestically in the rolling hills of Tyrol. Also known as Bernegg Castle, it enchants with its imposing appearance and romantic aura. Situated high up on a green hill, the castle proudly towers over the picturesque village of Kauns.
Berneck Castle is like an enchanted dream come to life. Its ancient walls tell stories of times gone by, while the scent of history and adventure is in the air. The ivy-covered walls and the towers that reach into the sky give the castle an almost fairytale atmosphere.
A walk along the castle walls reveals breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. From up there, you can admire the panorama of the Tyrolean Alps while the valley spreads out in all its splendor. Berneck Castle is a true refuge for the soul, a place where you can escape from everyday life and immerse yourself in times gone by.
When you visit Berneck Castle, you will be captivated by the fascination of the Middle Ages. You can imagine how knights and noble ladies once walked through the magnificent halls and enjoyed life to the fullest. Every stone in the castle seems to tell a story, and the past comes to life as you walk through the old walls.
Berneck Castle is a jewel of Tyrol, a place of historical significance and timeless beauty. It embodies the spirit of bygone eras and makes visitors' hearts beat faster. With its romantic splendor and picturesque location, it is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience for anyone who wants to feel the flair of the Middle Ages.
Story
Berneck Castle, also known as Bernegg Castle, was probably built at the beginning of the 13th century by the Lords of Berneck. Over the course of history, it suffered severe damage during conflicts and was later rebuilt as a late Gothic residential castle by Hans Wilhelm von Mülinen. After an extension in the 15th century, it was considered one of the most beautiful and largest castles in the area.
The castle is notable for its use of yellow tuff for window and door frames, window crosses, corner blocks and corbels. Particularly noteworthy is the castle chapel, which is dedicated to Saint Bartholomew and contains important late Gothic frescoes. The chapel's altar is carved directly into the rock and there is an open pulpit in the chapel courtyard.
Over time, the castle fell into disrepair, but in 1940 it was partially dismantled and brought to the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum. It was only when Ekkehard Hörmann purchased and renovated it in the 1970s and 1980s that the castle was saved from complete decay. The renovation of the castle chapel was completed in 1987 with the support of the Munich Messerschmitt Foundation. Since its renovation in 2007, the castle has been open to visitors again.
legend
About three quarters of an hour into the valley in the Kaunertal, the ruins of Bärneck Castle, also known as Pernegg and Berneck, rise up on a steep rock face above the wild Faggenbach. They bear witness to the transience of all things. There used to be a dark forest here where bears and wolves lived.
An old legend says that two hunter brothers went hunting near the castle. They came across an angry bear that was chasing them. When their arrows missed, they had no choice but to flee. When they could no longer escape, one of the hunters gave up. The bear smelled him and even sat down next to him as if it was guarding him. Suddenly the animal jumped up, screamed loudly and died shortly afterwards. An iron arrow shot by the hidden hunter had hit the bear. The brothers hugged each other in joy. For several centuries there was a plaque at this spot commemorating this event and attached to a large tree. The two hunters are said to have been the builders of the castle, hence the name Bäreneck. The noble family of Bäreneck also has a bear on its coat of arms.
Access
Berneck Castle is only accessible as part of a guided tour.
