Burg Heinfels

The impressive Burg Heinfels stands on a hill above Panzendorf in the proximity of
Sillian on the northern side of the Val Pusteria. The fortress overlooks both the Val Pusteria and the Kartitscher Tal on the opposite valley side. The monument is easily accessible on foot thanks to different paths and a small road. From the hill you can enjoy a fantastic view of the entire Val Pusteria. It is composed of circular and square towers, a fascinating keep, a protective curtain wall and 38 loopholes.

The pointed logs covering the moat are probably the most outstanding element of the ruin. These defensive structures were built to prevent enemies from leaning a ladder against the curtain wall to climb it or climbing it without a ladder. The irregular shapes of the monument are the result of several works carried out over the centuries and thus in different time periods. The most ancient part of the fortress dates back to the 13th century, whereas the most extensive part is its western wing which is still well-maintained. The palace of the medieval castle is attached to the 20 m-high keep. The Knight's Hall (Rittersaal) with its stucco decorations is one of the main attractions of the Burg Heinfels.

The origins of this castle date back to the 13th century when it was a property of the Counts of Görz who used it as a military post. Following the extinction of their family,, the monument was acquired by Emperor Maximilian I in 1500. He however, pledged it to the bishop of Bressanone due to his shortage of money. The castle was then passed on to the Lords of Wolkenstein-Trostburg. In 1613 it was largely destroyed in a fire. After having acquired the fortress, the state gave it to the municipalities of the regional court of Heinfels. Since 1977 Burg Heinfels is in private hands.