Culture in South Tyrol
When myths become iconic
South Tyrol, the land of a thousand myths and legends, of sagas and of architectural gems, is one of the most significant cultural regions in Italy. Living among down-to-earth culture and contemporary art is inspiring, with its seeming contrast – when you look, feel, hear, taste and experience properly you sense that the traditional and the contemporary come together in a wonderful way here.
Indeed, you get to enjoy both here – life with its finger on the pulse and a tangible feeling of rootedness in this fantastic area. In the heart of South Tyrol, between the Zillertal Alps and the world-renowned Dolomites, in the Ahrntal Valley – a valley of wonders, special features and stories.
Discover them – in the museums, exhibitions and during events which celebrate our traditions.
Tures Castle
What is probably the most impressive monument built by human hand sits enthroned high above the Ahrntal Valley and draws you in with its many secret nooks. Experience the era of chivalry in South Tyrol.
Predoi Mines
Venture into the depths of the mountains which once bore the Ahrntal Valley copper. Are you ready for an exciting journey below ground?
Cadipietra granary
Once a place for mountain people to stay, today it is a sight for all the family to visit. Find out about the Cadipietra granary.
Museum of minerals
This treasure trove in the Eastern Alps is alluring with its huge deposit of sparkling stones and minerals – look forward to seeing the diamonds of the mountains.
Messner Mountain Museum
Our mountains are in themselves the loveliest museum. Mountaineering legend Reinhold Messner presents this adventure.
Teodone Museum of Popular Art
Stories about the people of the Ahrntal and Pustertal valleys are recounted here in an informative exhibition. Find out about the different living environments of the peasants and the aristocracy.
Ötzi Museum
The man from the ice is known all over the world – he is to be found in South Tyrol and you will find out a great deal about his life.
Space for tradition. Space for history
South Tyrol’s museums, exciting exhibits and historic monuments enhance your relaxing and enjoyable days in our hotels in South Tyrol. Whether it is a romantic sightseeing tour of the castle in Tures, a trip to the copper caves at Predoi mining works or exploring the Cadipietra granary – the Ahrntal Valley inspires with its wide and varied range of cultural experiences. Indeed the natural surroundings themselves provide the most beautiful setting for cultural enjoyment. Discover the Museum of minerals or the Messner Mountain Museum, which is wholly dedicated to the inspiration provided by the mountains. In the Crib museum South Tyrolean handcrafts are presented in an atmospheric manner, while in the Museum of popular art in Teodone, culture and tradition are tangible.
The highlight of your journey into the past will doubtless be to see the legendary man from the ice, who you can gaze at in astonishment in Bolzano in the Ötzi Museum. You always get to discover something new and you can allow yourself to be captivated by Alpine history, which can barely be experienced in a more authentic way, or be more connected to the natural surroundings anywhere else.
Tradition & Culture in South Tyrol
Artistically down to earth
South Tyrol is as varied as it is unique, for in the combination of Alpine way of life, the Tyrolean outlook on life and elegant ‘Dolce Vita’, a cultural landscape is formed which is beyond compare.
The high alpine traditions in particular and the proud tradition of farming shape the year, providing many highlights. The many seasonal events such as the Alpine cattle drive are still among the loveliest festivals in the year. Everything is festooned, there are celebrations and dancing – all the people of the Ahrntal Valley are there when the cows, bedecked with flowers, leave their summer residence to return to the valley.
South Tyrol is well-known for its talented handcraft workers, whether that be in carving or lace making – the pieces exhibited are sought-after souvenirs and precious unique specimens. Enjoy the variety of culture on offer in South Tyrol.
Alpine cattle drive in Rein
Colourfully adorned, our cows come back to the valley – celebrate this special tradition with us.
Lace making
Talented ladies from South Tyrol make the finest lace doilies with a great deal of care and attention – wonderful souvenirs are waiting for you.