Appiano with its surroundings is known as the "region of castles" and comprises the villages of San Michele, San Paolo, Cornaiano, Riva di Sotto, Frangarto, Missiano, Predonico and Gaido. The municipality of Appiano (200 - 1,800 m a.s.l.) counts some 14,000 inhabitants and features the ideal soils for vines and grapes - wine lovers will be delighted.

Vine-growing is the main source of income for farmers in Appiano, a fact that is also reflected by the landscape that is mainly characterised by vineyards and some fruit orchards. Appiano stretches at the slopes of the Mendola mountain ridge, partially on moraine hills of the last Ice Age. Archaeologic findings of the Bronze Age and the Middle Ages testify an early settlement of this area. It is presumed that the name of the village derives from a Roman squire named Appius. S. Paolo is one of his places of residence.

The numerous castles, mansions and residences in the municipality characterise the landscape and the single villages and attract attention.Many castles can be experienced in the frame of a walk and some can even be visited. Others are often venue for concerts and theatre performances. Another attraction are the Monticolo Lakes and the protected forest of Monticolo, considered to be recreation centres for the inhabitants of Bolzano. For hikers, there are interesting paths and destinations, such as Castel Firmiano, and the three major castles of Appiano. You are going to read more in the following articles.