Schildhoefe farmsteads

They perfectly suit the large number of castles and mansions of Merano and surroundings. The so called schildhoefe are adapted to residences.

They are located in Val Passiria and have already been residence of the Schildhof farmers in the 13th century. They were shield bearers of Earls and territorial lords. In the 14th century the inhabitants of the schildhoefe also received the possibility of getting aristocracy rights.

In March 1317 King Heinrich of Bohemia, together with the Counts of Tyrol, composed the so called Freedom Letters, in which he relieved 11 of the Schildhof farmers from tax dues, lifelong. In return the farmers had to commit themselves to serve the lords and counts within Tyrol.
They supported the conquest of neighbouring countries, provided their lords with food, also with bagged animals. In festive occasions they guarded Castel Tirolo or Castel Zenoburg.

The eleven Schildhof farmers of Val Passiria were allowed to appear armed, wherever they went. Of all the additional rights, fishery and the right to parade with shield and halberd have been preserved.
Today there is a trail leading past the ancient Schildhoefe farms, representing residences with castle elements. These farms are located at the top of hills, boast lvy-covered towers, sundials and old frescos.
The names of the Schildhoefe farmsteads are Haupold, Saltaus, Granstein, Pseirer, Ebion, Buchenegg, Baumkirch, Steinhaus, Gereuth, Happerg, Kalm and Gomion.