Gunpowder Tower

The rectangular keep was once part of the imposing Ortenstein Castle, which loomed high above the town. Originally built as the residence of the Tyrolean burgrave, the castle underwent numerous alterations over the centuries and was eventually dismantled in the 16th century—except for the Gunpowder Tower. From 1626, the tower was used as a gunpowder storage to protect the city of Merano from a potentially catastrophic explosion during the Thirty Years' War. This is how it earned its name and became an important part of the town’s defensive structures.

With its two interconnected towers, the Gunpowder Tower was particularly well protected from attacks. To the north, remnants of defensive moats can still be seen, which once served as the last line of defence against invading forces.

Today, the Gunpowder Tower offers a fantastic panoramic view of Merano and the Adige Valley. The steep climb is well worth the effort: from here, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the town and the surrounding nature. The tower is not just a piece of history, but also a wonderful viewpoint that brings the city's past and its defences to life.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to take in the view, the Gunpowder Tower is a must-visit during your time in Merano.


The Gunpowder Tower is located on the Tappeiner Promenade, which is basically accessible and therefore well suited for wheelchairs and pushchairs, although it is paved with gravel. The best access point for families with pushchairs or wheelchair users is from Quarazze, as the entrance is level. From there, the Gunpowder Tower is about a 1-hour walk. Alternatively, you can also start from the via Galilei street or the Gilf Promenade, although these two paths have a difference in altitude of around 60 metres. Thorough planning is therefore advisable. This tour is also suitable for older people and families with children. There are various benches along the way where you can take a break.

The Gunpowder Tower is accessible only via stairs, making it unsuitable for those with limited mobility.

Please note: There are no public toilets along the Tappeiner Promenade. However, you can stop off at the various restaurants and cafés. Please enquire in advance about their opening hours.

There is no tactile guidance system or other aids for the blind on the promenades in Merano and at the Gunpowder Tower.

During the summer months, it's highly recommended to start your outdoor activities early in the morning. Mornings typically offer pleasant temperatures, allowing you to fully enjoy your excursion without the discomfort of intense heat. The air is crisp and invigorating, enhancing your senses and creating an ideal setting for immersing yourself in nature, thereby ensuring a more enjoyable and safer experience. Moreover, the early hours boast fewer crowds, providing an opportunity to appreciate nature in tranquil serenity and fostering a deeper connection with the surroundings.

In the other seasons, especially in spring and autumn, a visit is worthwhile at any time of day. During the colder months, midday is particularly pleasant, when the sun warms the slope and its rays invite you to enjoy the breathtaking view.

Extra tip: Enjoy an evening stroll along the floodlit Tappeinerweg trail - not only because of the more pleasant summer temperatures, but also because of the spectacular views. The path and access points are illuminated until midnight, making it possible to walk safely and comfortably after dark and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. The Tappeinerweg is illuminated between the serpentines of the Galileistraße and the Kralingerweg. The illuminated access points include the Kralingerweg near the Steinernen Steg and the Tirolersteig behind the parish church of St Nicholas. Please note that both access points are not barrier-free.

There are reserved parking spaces for people with disabilities in via Galilei street and upper corso Libertà street. Please note that these are traffic-calmed zones. Entry to this zones is only permitted if you have deposited your disabled parking permit and your car's licence plate number with the city council Comune di Merano in advance. In addition, one reserved parking space is also available in via Laurin street in Quarazze at the entrance to Tappeiner Promenade.

We would also like to note that the Merano Market occurs in the upper corso Libertà street on Saturdays until 2 pm (from March to October), making parking unavailable during this period.

Bicycle parking spaces are located in upper corso Libertà street at the junction with via Cassa di Risparmio street and in via Galilei street in front of the town hall. Take care not to park bicycles and e-rollers carelessly. They can pose a danger to blind and visually impaired people as they create obstacles to safely walking along paths and finding entrances. People in wheelchairs and parents with pushchairs can also be hindered by carelessly parked bicycles. Please use the bicycle parking spaces provided. 

Please note: via Cassa di Risparmio street and via Galilei street up to the Princes Castle are exclusively pedestrian zones from 10 am to 6.30 pm - bicycles must be pushed. 

The Gunpowder Tower, an iconic landmark of Merano, stands alone today above the Steinach district, overlooking a history that stretches back to the 16th century.

We recommend travelling by public transport. You can reach the starting point in Quarazze on bus route 236, which departs from both the train station and via delle Corse street in the town centre. Get off at the ‘Passeggiata Tappeiner’ stop. The other entrances are in the pedestrian zone. From the train station, it is best to take one of the city lines 1, 4 or 5 to the ‘Merano, piazza Teatro’ stop and then continue on foot.