Burg Hasegg is a medieval castle right in the heart of Hall in Tirol, its striking Mint Tower having become the landmark of the entire town. This is where the history of salt production, coin minting and the Habsburg rulers all come together in one compact complex that now houses museums, a chapel and a gallery.

The castle began life as a corner watchtower guarding the town's salt works, later growing into a princely residence. Walking through its courtyard and the narrow lanes around it, you can still feel the atmosphere of what was once Tyrol's minting capital. The view of the 45-metre-high Mint Tower rising above the old town's rooftops is one of the most recognisable sights of Hall in Tirol in any season.

How to get there

• Hall in Tirol town centre — the castle stands right in town, a short walk from the main square, a few minutes, easy
• Hall in Tirol railway station — walk to the old town, about 10-15 minutes, easy

Practical information

• The Mint Tower is 45 m tall, with 204 steps leading to the top
• The tower houses the world's largest silver thaler (Europataler), 36 cm in diameter and weighing over 20 kg
• The castle houses the Hall Town Museum and the Münze Hall Museum, plus a gallery in the former armoury vaults
• The Chapel of St George is also available as a wedding venue

Legend has it that Emperor Maximilian I celebrated his wedding to Bianca Maria Sforza here in 1494, though historians still debate whether the ceremony actually took place in Innsbruck or here in Hasegg.