St. Mary Magdalene Patronal Feast at Castel d'Appiano

A patronal feast suspended above the Oltradige

The Patrozinium hl. Maria Magdalena, the patronal feast in honor of Saint Mary Magdalene, takes place every year on July 22nd in the gardens of Castel d'Appiano (known in German as Burg Hocheppan), located on the hill above the village of Missiano/Missian, in the municipality of Appiano sulla strada del vino/Eppan an der Weinstraße, in the Province of Bolzano (Trentino-Alto Adige). It is one of those South Tyrolean traditions that beautifully blends devotion, rural heritage, and world-class art.

The open-air solemn mass

The day begins at 10:00 AM with a solemn mass celebrated in the castle gardens, right in front of the Romanesque chapel. The service is accompanied by the singing of the Andriano/Andrian parish choir and, in recent years, has been officiated by Dr. Father Paolo Renner. The outdoor setting, with the vineyards and orchards of the Oltradige sloping down toward Bolzano, makes the ceremony one of the most evocative moments of the summer in Appiano.

The Romanesque chapel and its frescoes

After the mass, the day's true treasure is revealed: the Romanesque chapel of Saint Catherine, consecrated in 1131 and dubbed the "Sistine Chapel of the Alps," opens its doors to visitors free of charge. Inside, you can admire one of the best-preserved cycles of Romanesque frescoes in the Tyrol, dating back to the 13th century. It features scenes from the life of Christ and the Apostles, the wise and foolish virgins, and above all, the famous "dumpling eater" (Knödelesserin): the oldest depiction of dumplings in South Tyrol. Expert guides are on hand to share the architectural and artistic history of the manor.

South Tyrolean flavors and views

The festival is also a convivial occasion: the castle tavern, managed by Anni and Lisa, offers traditional South Tyrolean delicacies such as dumplings, Strauben (spiral-shaped fritters), and sweet apricot dumplings, all to be enjoyed in the panoramic garden. Surrounded by the trails of the Oltradige and the silhouette of the Bolzano basin, it is an experience that perfectly combines faith, art, and local cuisine.

How to reach Castel d'Appiano

The castle can be reached on foot via well-marked trails starting from San Paolo/St. Pauls, Missiano, Riva di Sotto/Unterrain, or Predonico/Perdonig. A paid shuttle service is available upon request. The patronal feast is an intimate and authentic event, far from the crowds, ideal for those looking to discover the most traditional side of Appiano and the Oltradige.