The Advent market in the courtyard of Castel Schenna, featuring traditional flavors and ancient crafts
Schlossadvent, or Advent at Castel Schenna, is one of the most evocative Christmas markets in the Merano area. It takes place in the inner courtyard of Castel Schenna (Schloss Schenna), the historic residence overlooking the village of Scena/Schenna, in the province of Bolzano, Trentino-Alto Adige. Far from the crowds of large city markets, this event offers an intimate and cozy atmosphere, illuminated by the warm glow of candles and lights wrapped around the ancient walls.
The guiding theme of the event is the motto "Gerichte mit Geschichte / Flavors of the Past": dishes with a story to tell. The food stalls offer authentic South Tyrolean traditional dishes, prepared according to recipes passed down through generations using local ingredients. It is a culinary journey that evokes the flavors of yesteryear in a setting that exudes authenticity and warmth.
Alongside the gastronomy, the market highlights quality craftsmanship and ancient trades. Exhibitors present handmade products, local specialties, and refined gift ideas for lovers of good food and traditional workmanship. Live demonstrations allow visitors to discover how things were made in the past, in an experience that combines culture, tradition, and conviviality.
Schlossadvent is also designed for the little ones: a carefully curated children's program makes the visit an experience suitable for the whole family. Opening hours are from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with free admission.
The location is an integral part of the event's charm. Castel Schenna was built around 1350 by order of Countess Margaret of Tyrol-Gorizia, known as "Maultasch," and remains to this day a rare medieval residence inhabited by the same family, descendants of Archduke John of Austria, Counts von Meran. Not far from the castle stands the imposing neo-Gothic mausoleum of Archduke John, one of the most elegant sacred buildings in South Tyrol. Experiencing Advent in this setting means immersing yourself in the history and traditions of the village of Scena, at the gates of Merano.
The 2026 edition confirms the formula that has made this market so beloved: two Advent weekends in the courtyard of Castel Schenna, in Scena/Schenna. The opening days are Saturday, November 28 and Sunday, November 29, and then from Friday, December 5 to Monday, December 8, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
True to the motto "Gerichte mit Geschichte / Flavors of the Past", the market offers food stalls with authentic South Tyrolean cuisine, craft exhibitors and ancient trades, and a curated children's program that makes the event suitable for the whole family. Admission is free.
Scena/Schenna is located on the heights above Merano. By car, it can be reached from Merano in a few minutes; parking is available above the school and in the town center (some are paid). By public transport, bus line 231 from Merano stops at "Scena scuola," just a short walk from the castle.
The market is open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Admission is free. No registration is required.
Scena Tourist Office — tel. +39 0473 945669, e-mail [email protected], website www.schenna.com.
No photos yet. Share yours!
5 photos max, 5 MB per photo (JPG, PNG, WebP)
Help us keep this listing up to date. Every proposal is verified by our team before publication.
No rating yet — be the first!
No comments yet. Be the first!
Share your experience with the community.
Castel Schenna / Schloss Schenna
Via al castello 14, 39017 Scena/Schenna