Schloss Boymont (Castle)

Once, Boymont was one of the largest and most powerful castles in Überetsch. It was built around 1230 probably by the Counts of Eppan, who passed it on as a fief to the Lords of Boymont. The first half of the 13th century was a golden age of castle building in South Tyrol, during which, among others, Runkelstein Castle, Churburg Castle, Trostburg Castle, or Haselburg were built.

However, Boymont Castle was not built for strategic or military considerations, but rather served as a representative residential castle. The clear, rectangular layout is untypical for the castles of the Middle Ages. The stylistic features are clearly Romanesque, especially noticeable are the beautiful, large triforia – windows with three arches – in the outer walls. Also in the main tower, the keep, there is a strikingly large opening in the form of an arch. Defensive structures and another, smaller tower do exist, but the residential character of the complex clearly predominates.

After the extinction of the main line of the Lords of Boymont, the castle came into the possession of a certain Ulrich von Kässler around 1400. He was actually of bourgeois descent, had married Barbara von Boymont, and was secretary and financier to Duke Frederick with the empty pocket. As such, Kässler naturally had many enviers and enemies. Therefore, when in 1425 – while all the inhabitants were at church in the village – a fire broke out at Boymont Castle, which ultimately destroyed the entire castle, arson was quickly suspected. Whether accident or intention, the cause of the fire could never be determined and remains a mystery to this day, with plenty of room for speculation.

Boymont Castle was not rebuilt after this devastating fire and fell into ruin over the centuries. Only towards the end of the 20th century did efforts begin to restore this architectural jewel and use it for tourism. Today, Boymont Castle is thoroughly renovated and consolidated and presents itself as an extremely rewarding excursion destination. In the tavern in the castle courtyard, you can comfortably snack, and the view of Missian and Eppan is simply magnificent. Boymont Castle is also part of the famous Three Castles Walk, a varied, easy tour for the whole family from Eppan to the Hocheppan ruins, on to Boymont Castle, and finally to Korb Castle.