The Art of Falconry at Castel Stenico (DiCastelloInCastello)

Falconry returns to Castel Stenico

The Art of Falconry at Castel Stenico is one of the most beloved highlights of the DiCastelloInCastello summer festival, promoted by the Cultural Activities Service of the Autonomous Province of Trento and organized by the Castello del Buonconsiglio. Monumenti e collezioni provinciali in collaboration with the Centro Servizi Culturali Santa Chiara of Trento. In the evocative courtyard of the fortress, perched above the village of Stenico in the Giudicarie Community, expert falconers guide the public through the discovery of birds of prey and their age-old alliance with humanity.

An ancient tradition of the Prince-Bishops

Falconry was a noble and refined practice, widespread in medieval courts and dear to the Prince-Bishops of Trento who governed the castle for centuries. The demonstrations at Castel Stenico evoke this very tradition: through the flight of the raptors, spectators are transported to an era when hunting with falcons was a symbol of prestige and deep knowledge of nature.

The displays

Throughout the day, falconers present elegant training demonstrations and spectacular flight performances. The audience can observe eagles, hawks, buzzards, and nocturnal raptors up close—many of which are native to the Trentino region, with some species being endangered. It is a precious opportunity, especially for younger visitors, to engage with the world of ornithology and understand the role these predators play in Alpine ecosystems.

Castel Stenico

Documented as far back as 1163, Castel Stenico dominates the Giudicarie Valley and stands as one of the most important fortified complexes in Trentino-Alto Adige. Over the centuries, it transformed from a defensive fortress into an elegant residence for the Prince-Bishops, later serving as a courthouse and a Carabinieri barracks. Since 1973, it has been part of the Castello del Buonconsiglio Museum: a visit to the manor, which includes frescoed halls, a medieval kitchen, and a natural history section, provides the perfect backdrop for the falconry displays.

An event for the whole family

The demonstrations are included in the castle admission ticket and are designed for audiences of all ages. Strolling through the walls of the Municipality of Stenico, admiring the view over the Giudicarie, and watching the birds of prey in flight makes this experience one of the most characteristic events of the Trentino cultural summer.