Merano/Meran

The presence of the Tessa mountain group, which is a natural barrier against the cold northern winds, gives the nice town of Merano an incomparably mild climate. Dr Huber, in 1836, discovered the benefits of this and, since then, Merano became a renowned spa among the Habsbourgic aristocracy. Many were, in fact, the opportunities the town offered and everything people needed could be found there too, not only in Vienna. Wonderful hotels, the Kurhaus and many churches of different faith were built, and fascinating buildings in the Liberty style still testimony this past society life.
When also the Austrian Empress Elisabeth decided to pass the winter in Merano, the fame of the town as a tourist resort was eventually sealed.

Let’s discover together the wonders of the XIX-century Merano...
Walking along Corso della Libertà you meet the Puccini Theatre, built in 1900 in a style which is a mix of Neoclassicism and Liberty. Through the Theatre Bridge on the Passìrio river, you get to the Spa, whereas, continuing along the Corso, you will meet the Kurhaus which is the most beautiful Liberty building in the whole Alps. It was designed by the Vienna architect Friedrich Ohmann at the end of the XIX century. Particularly beautiful is the Pavillon des Fleurs, built in 1874 and the Kursaal built in 1914. ...or some of the many evidences of the medieval town...
Along the characteristic Via Portici you can get to the Cathedral built in 1263 in the gothic style and dedicated to Saint Nicolò. Not far from here there is also the Prince Castle built in the XIV century and then restored in 1480. This manor is a rare example of gothic residence.
Also the Botanic Garden of Castel Trauttmansdorff is worth a visit, since it houses many plants from the different climate areas all over the world.