Trentino Alto-Adige
Chiusa is a little town located along the river Isarco and is historically a customs town. The territory of the village of Chiusa, in Alto Adige, dominated by the monastery of Sabiona (German Säben), was already inhabited before Christ. Vineyards and chestnut groves lie on the sunny slopes and together with the cliffs, the scattered farmsteads, the green pastures and the characteristic localities make up a truly unique image.
“Chiusa is a full colored little town, reminiscent of a place taken from a fairy tale”
The medieval village of Chiusa with its narrow alleys is characterized by a typical South Tyrolean atmosphere, and is known as the "town of Dürer". Several centuries ago, it was the scene of a lively artistic life and the great master Albrecht Dürer stayed in this beautiful village during his trip to Italy in 1494. From a particularly panoramic point, today equipped with the "stone of Dürer", the artist he painted the portrait "Das große Glück", to which Chiusa was the background.
Above the town, on top of a promontory, the sabbiona monastery dominates the valley.
To reach the monastery it is necessary to follow a path about one kilometer long. The path is sloping, so it is not suitable for people with mobility difficulties.
Just under the walls of defense of the fortress, inside the vineyard, lie the traces of the first Episcopal Cathedral, whose foundations, dating back to the V-VI century, were studied by a group of archaeologists in 1982-1983 and then reinterrated with care for a more effective conservation.
When you arrive to the Monastery, it's possible visit the ancient chapel of the Madonna, the conventual church, the church of the Holy Cross and the commemorative fountain.
For over four hundred years the church of the Holy Cross has been the seat of the Episcopal Chair, which only shortly before the year 1000 was moved to Bressanone.
The Torre del Capitano, also called castel Branzoll, is located a little further down the defense of the cliff of the monastery.
Currently and for almost three hundred years, the monastery is home to a community of Benedictine nuns, who are currently only 11 and live in seclusion.
How to arrive?
Chiusa is near to Bolzano, located close to the A22 (road to Brennero). It's easy to find, and the road is in perfect condition, so you can use a car, a motorcicle or a bike to reach the town.
Where we can eat?
Our choice for eating in Chiusa is without doubt at Gassl Brau.
The Glass Brau is a restaurant / brewery where you can eat typical dishes while sipping a craft beer produced by the restaurant itself.
Among the beers they produce, chestnut beer and basil beer are unmissable choices.
http://www.gassl-braeu.it/it/chi-siamo/