Tre Buchi

Tri Böcc


Useful Information

Location: Mendrisio.
Motorway 2 exit Mendrisio, trail starts at the Osteria Lanterna.
(45.879359, 8.989779)
Open: no restrictions.
[2022]
Fee: free.
[2022]
Classification: SubterraneaCave Castle
Light: bring torch
Dimension: A=570 m asl.
Guided tours: self guided
Photography: allowed
Accessibility: no
Bibliography:
Address:
As far as we know this information was accurate when it was published (see years in brackets), but may have changed since then.
Please check rates and details directly with the companies in question if you need more recent info.

History

15th centur cave castle built.

Description

Tre Buchi (Three Holes) in Italian is also called Tri Böcc, it is a cave castle in the middle of a cliff high above Mendrisio. It is also known as Casa dei Pagani Tre Buchi (Pagan House Three Holes) or Heidenhaus von Mendrisio in German. It is located northeast of the village, south of the Hermitage of San Nicolao which is located on top of the cliff. The castle ruin has three stories, an elevated door and two windows, three openings which are a possible explanation for the name. The architecture is typical for the 15th century, the actual age is unknown.

The cave castle can be reached on a trail from the Osteria Lanterna in Mendrisio. A trail called Pagan Trail leads up the cliff, and the last part is equipped with a rope for security. The ascent requires physical fitness and takes at least two hours including the visit. There is also some climbing involved. On the other hand the cave castle is at a prominent location and can be easily seen from the village Mendrisio below.