When some years ago the Podini Family bought Castel Hörtenberg from the Baron Fuchs, its former owner, the Family did it bearing well in mind the best family tradition: a passion for excellence, a commitment with the environment and a continuous innovation.
A new life for Castel Hörtenberg.
Its story began over 500 years ago when Leonard Hiertmair arrived in the city of Bolzano transformed the estate, located in one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, into a mansion. The trading city rewarded Leonard Hiertmair electing him mayor, he served 4 terms, and in 1584 he obtained from the emperor the title of baron changing his family name from Hiertmair to von Hiertenberg and later in “von Hörtenberg”. In 1862, since there were no male heirs, the castle was bought by Hieronymus Giovanelli related to von Hörtenberg family through his wife. From now on the family name became, with the emperor’s blessing, Giovanelli von Hörtenberg zu Gerstburg
The Giovanelli family owned the castle until the XX century, its location and its importance make of it one of the landmarks of Bolzano. The Giovanellis personally and financially supported the Tyrolean revolt and in 1808 and 1809 Castel Hörtenberg became the headquarter of Andreas Hofer commander of the insurgents. At the turn of century, between XIX and XX, baronesse Maria Giovanelli von Hörtenberg zu Gertburg marries baron Ludwig von Fuchs and Castel Hörtenberg becomes part of the von Fuchs estate. A few years ago the owners sold it to the Podini family.
Alex & Anna Podini
The family entrusted the renovation project to Anna Podini, the youngest one within the real estate family, who, together with her father Alex, has overseen every single step of the project. Her youth and a cosmopolitan upbringing, together with the support of a team of architects, has made the difference, giving Castel Hörtenberg its unmistakable allure. A mix of ancient history blended in with an urban style and a traditional craftsmanship.
Passion and Tradition
In Tuscany, the family’s farm Ampeleia is focused on creating synergies between the man and the nature. The partnership with Elisabetta Foradori, the winemaker, has created an excellent wine: the Podini family produces yearly 200.000 bottles exclusively from bio-dynamic agriculture. In addition to the Tuscan estate, the family has also an Olive grove at lake garda with 500 olive trees. Every year 1800 liters of cold pressed olive oil are produced for personal consumption and a few selected customers. At Castel Hörtenberg guests will be able to savor both the wine and the oil.
The Podini Foundation is another project the family devotes a special care to, it’s the soul of their social responsibility conscience. Its scope for a fairer world has brought the foundation to support special projects in Erirea, Cambodia and in the local region as well.
