Tage der Romanik – Romanesque Days at Rundkirche St. Georg

The Romanesque Days in South Tyrol

The Tage der Romanik (Romanesque Days) are the annual highlight of the Alpine Romanesque Road – known in German as Stiegen zum Himmel – a circuit connecting over thirty Romanesque cultural sites scattered across South Tyrol and neighboring Alpine territories. For an entire weekend, medieval churches, chapels, castles, and frescoes open their doors to the public for free, accompanied by guided tours, themed itineraries, and musical performances. The initiative is promoted by IDM Südtirol and involves dozens of municipalities in the province of Bolzano.

The Rundkirche St. Georg in Scena

In the municipality of Scena/Schenna, within the picturesque hillside hamlet of San Giorgio/St. Georgen, the star attraction is the Rundkirche St. Georg, the circular church dedicated to Saint George. Nestled among apple orchards, meadows, and forests overlooking the Merano basin, with views of the Sarntal Alps and the Texel Group, it is one of only three circular Romanesque buildings preserved in all of South Tyrol: an architectural rarity that makes it an unmissable stop on the Alpine Romanesque Road.

History and Frescoes

Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, the church was originally the chapel of the castle of San Giorgio, the ancient Scena. In 1591, lightning severely damaged the structure, leading to the central section being reinforced with an additional pillar. Inside, it houses precious 14th-century frescoes depicting the martyrdom of Saint George, the Last Judgment, and episodes from the legend of Saint Nicholas. Also of great value is the late-Gothic winged altar, featuring the scene of Saint George on horseback fighting the dragon, and a rare depiction of Saint Kummernus.

Typical Program

Throughout the weekend, the Rundkirche remains open with free admission. The program usually includes:

• Guided tours in German and Italian, led by local experts, illustrating the circular architecture and fresco cycles;
• Musical accompaniment featuring South Tyrolean folk music ensembles (Stubenmusik);
• Convivial moments tied to local traditions, such as tastings of apples, the signature product of Scena's orchards.

An Experience of Faith, Art, and Landscape

The Romanesque Days in San Giorgio di Scena are more than just a visit to a monument: they are an opportunity to immerse yourself in the ancient identity of South Tyrol, where medieval art dialogues with the Alpine landscape of apple orchards and the musical traditions of the Burggrafenamt. A refined and authentic event, perfect for art lovers, families, and hikers, set in one of the most evocative corners of the Merano area.