Hocheppan Castle Chapel
The Castle Chapel in the south of the Hocheppan castle complex, also known as the Sistine Chapel of the Alps, truly bears witness to bygone days. Although it was consecrated in the Middle Ages, in 1131, both its architecture and the paintings that it contains have been almost completely and very well preserved. The Romanesque frescoes from the 13th century show typical motifs from the time when the castle was built, such as a hunting scene, or the famous “dumpling eater”. There are also frescoes with scenes from the life of Christ and the Apostles, which are among the best-preserved in Tyrol. That we can marvel at them today is thanks to the fact that they were uncovered in 1926, after having been painted over for many centuries.
Hocheppan Castle and its chapel can be visited as part of guided tours, available every 30 minutes from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM on the following days:
- 5. April – July: Thursday to Sunday
- August: Thursday to Monday
- September – 9. November: Thursday to Tuesday
At the following times:
- On the hour: guided tour of the castle
- Every half hour: Art historical chapel tour
Special tours for larger groups or outside these times are available on request. Guided tours are available in German, Italian and English.
For more information about guided tours, please contact the Tourist Association of Appiano at info@eppan.com or by phone at +39 0471 662206.
VIRTUAL TOUR
For all those who would like to get a first impression from home – click here for a virtual tour of Hocheppan Castle.
CODE OF CONDUCT AT CULTURAL SITES
Eppan is one of the regions with the highest density of castles in Europe. To preserve and protect castles and other cultural heritage – and for your own safety – please follow these guidelines:
General Conduct Guidelines
- Most cultural sites are open during the designated opening hours, please inform yourself in advance.
- Always show respect and consideration for the cultural sites, staff, and other visitors.
- Speak quietly and avoid loud noises to maintain the atmosphere.
- Use only the marked paths and entrances to prevent damage.
- You visit cultural sites at your own risk – please watch your step. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
- Follow the instructions of staff or authorized personnel.
- Filming and photography are generally permitted.
Visitor Conduct at Sensitive Cultural Sites
- Many artifacts, buildings and structures are fragile and should be treated with particular care. Please do not touch them and avoid causing any damage.
- It is prohibited to lean bicycles against cultural monuments, fountains or historic buildings.
- Large backpacks, wet or sharp objects are not allowed in museums, churches, castles and palaces.
- Leaning over railings or climbing on walls is prohibited. Exhibition items must not be touched.
- Eating, drinking and smoking are not allowed in museums, churches, castles or palaces.
- Dogs are not permitted in cultural sites.
- Liability for damages is excluded to the extent permitted by law.
- Parents are responsible for supervising their children. Running or pushing is not allowed. If you are supervising a school class or children’s group, please ensure appropriate behavior.
- Familiarize yourself with emergency exits and procedures. In an emergency, remain calm, leave the building as quickly as possible and proceed to the assembly point.
- Respect private property, boundaries and fences. Entering agricultural land is not permitted.
- Dispose of waste properly in the designated bins or take it with you.
Behavior at Cultural Events
- Arrive on time to avoid disturbing other attendees.
- Switch off or mute mobile phones and other electronic devices to avoid disruptions.
- Respect the assigned seating and do not change seats on your own.