Encircled by a truly spectacular natural landscape, Merano is a city which offers a great deal to the tourist, from its Mediterranean climate and parklands to its typically Medieval center. Merano is a city which should be discovered gradually and in its entirety, starting from the historic center, situated in an area between the slopes of Monte Benedetto and the right bank of the Passirio river. The center of Merano is the Piazza del Duomo, historic site of the town. Traces of the town's medieval past can be found in the gateways of the city walls and the Polveriera tower situated on the top of the wall. There are numerous ecclesiastic buildings of historical interest such as the Cathedral, the small Church of St Barbara, the Church of St Spirito, the Church of St Maria del Conforto, the Church of St Giorgio, the Orthodox Church and the Synagogue. The Town Museum is also well worth visiting.