Churches and monasteries

The Weiberbödele is a site dating back to the Bronze Age (approx. 2000-1800 a. C) where votive pyres were consumed. Nearby, numerous metal slags and a bronze axe were found, which suggests the existence of a forge. The mineral should not have made a defect if you think that Stelvio - which is accessed after 15 minutes of ascent respecting the marker 9 (h. 1302 )- was built and inhabited by miners working in the mines of the area.

A monument of the High Baroque, it is located at the eastern entrance of the old country road in the village center.

Chapel of St. Zyprian/S. Cipriano

The paintings on the outer wall of the 17th century represent the wonderful rescue of the "Platzliner" meadow. God father flashes out the clouds, the Saints Cipriano and Giustina protect the meadow and his flook with their coats. This painting shows that the colonization of Tires did not begin in today's centre, but in San Cipriano.

The church dates back to the 12th century, but probably its origins are even more remote. The Romanesque building and the Lombard-style bell tower have been subject to many changes. Inside, there is a unique cycle of frescos in Byzantine style dating from 1200-1220. On the ouside walls there are other, probably late 14th century, frescos. Masses (in Italian): Weekdays: 8:00 a.m

The church of Saint George in St. Georgen originates from the 12th and 13th Centuries. This original round church was previously the fortress chapel of St. Georgen or Alt-Schenna. When lightning struck in 1591 and nearly half of the church was destroyed, the central part of the church was strengthened with an additional pillar. The frescoes from the 14th Century are well restored and represent the martyrdom of Saint George, the Day of Judgement and the legend about Saint Nicolas. The Gothic wing altar shows Saint George on a horse, fighting with the dragon. It is also worth mentioning that there is a rare illustration of Saint Kummernus from the 17th Century. Legend has it that she was a king’s daughter from the Iberian peninsula. She had taken a vow to stay a virgin. However, her father, the king, wanted her to marry. In this difficult situation, she prayed she would grow a beard, so to disguise her face. Her prayer was answered, but her father got her thrown into the dungeon and nailed to a cross. The only remain from the former St. Georgen fortress is the keep, which is known today as the ’Uhlentower’.

The Chapel of Our Lady – A Place of History and Art

The Chapel of Our Lady in Parcines is a fascinating building rich in history and tradition, dating back to 1361. According to historical records, it was built around 1350 by Knight Nikolaus Zehnter in honor of the Virgin Mary. In 1552, the chapel was extensively renovated and adorned with an elegantly crafted ceiling.
A true highlight of the chapel is the magnificent altar. While the mensa and tabernacle structure are from a more modern era, the columns with acanthus chalice and vine leaf decorations add a unique charm. The altarpiece depicts Saint Dominic and Saint Sebastian, surrounded by the representation of the Rosary Gift of Mary.

Saint Sebastian – Patron Saint and Living Tradition in Parcines

Saint Sebastian, whose feast day is celebrated on January 20, holds an important role as the patron saint of marksmen and a protector against the plague. On the altarpiece, he is depicted with the typical arrows symbolizing his martyrdom and his intercession during plague epidemics, for which he was especially revered.
In Parcines, devotion to Saint Sebastian goes beyond history. He is a living symbol of the local tradition. His values of protection, faith, and healing are celebrated through cultural customs, festivities, and the continuation of marksmen traditions. This makes him a spiritual and cultural reference point for the local community.

Other Artistic Features of the Chapel of Our Lady

The golden coat of arms on the altar is a later addition. Particularly impressive are the two angelic figures created around 1640 by Johann Patsch, which stand out for their high artistic quality. Above the broken pediment of the altar is a medallion painted on canvas, depicting a pope. It could either represent Pope Pius V or Pope Clement, but many scholars believe it depicts Pius V, under whose pontificate the decisive Battle of Lepanto took place on October 7, 1571—a victory attributed to the prayer of the rosary.

In the ancient documents it was also known as a "White Church" of Vandoies di Sopra/Obervintl, first mentioned in 1300. The church foundation is the only part preserved of the ancient Romansque building. The modern church, built in the late 15th century, is an example of the Gothic style The Renaissance paintings on the ceiling were made during the restoration works in 1891.

The parish church in St. Sigmund is one of the most beautiful historical monuments in South Tyrol. First mentioned in the year 1363, today's building was built between 1449 and 1489. The altar (1440) is one of the oldest and most important sidepiece altars in South Tyrol. The church “Unsere liebe Frau im Stöckl” was built in the year 1621 and enlarged in the year 1644. It was built totally new in the year 1680.

The parish church St. Petrus and Paulus in Kiens was built between 1835 and 1838. Only the tower dates back to the 15th century. The paintings on the ceiling are remarkable.

Built in the 13th century, with numerous frescoes dating back to the 15th century. Contemorary round shaped church annex exists since 1975. The grace stones of the nobles, tax collectors and keepers in the church wall are worth seeing.

Visiting the town of Certosa/Karthaus is like a journey into the past. The town was built inside the walls of the Cloister of Certosa degli Angeli, founded in 1326 and reopened in 1782. The Via Crucis of the ancient cloister is especially interesting.

It's difficult to find such a beautiful church ensemble as in Vandoies elsewhere.

The chapel Floriani is located directly on the village square next to the church.

At the parish church St. Martin in Hofern the longhouse walls are romanic, the vaults, the choir and the tower were built in the year 1473. At the inside there is a sidepiece altar which dates bach to the year 1520. Church is locked, information about the key at the tourist office in Kiens/Chienes.

The Mary's Ascension into Heaven Parish Church is located in Sarnthein / Sarentino Village. The church was first mentioned in documents dating back to 1309. The church tower is the oldest part, having been built in the 14th century. Other parts of the church were added or expanded over the years.

Already 1341 was there a chapel; It could be that the church of San Paolo was the first chuch of Rodengo. The church is closed and not possible to visit.

The castle chapel is a very special place, home to artistic treasures and at the same time hiding a small secret.

During the restoration of the castle chapel, previously unknown inscriptions came to light, recalling dramatic events of the 17th century, in which a woman venerated as a saint played a key role.
Magnificent paintings from the 17th to the 19th century depict religious scenes, also providing clues about the owners of Schenna Castle.
The castle chapel is an active part of the religious life in Schenna and is used for various celebrations throughout the church year.

The parish church of Steinegg|Collepietra is a special place where art, history and spirituality come together in an impressive way. 
First mentioned in 1322, the church, with its walls and works of art, tells of times gone by and living tradition. Originally dedicated to St Peter and St Jakobus, later only to St Peter, and today to St Peter and St Paul - the history of the patron saints reflects the development of this sacred building.

On entering the church, the pointed arch-shaped main portal catches the eye, with its star-shaped vault dating from the first half of the 15th century. The choir, as you see it today, was built around 1664 and impresses with its three-sided apse. A special highlight can be found in the choir: a small, artistic sandstone statue of St Peter.

The 35 metre high tower from the 15th century houses six bells that carry the sound of faith far into the valley. There is much to discover inside the church: The valuable Stations of the Cross date back to 1747 and the colourful frescoes, created by Karl Joh. Henrici in 1794, tell stories from the Bible and invite you to linger.

The works of art from modern times also fit harmoniously into the story: The sculptor Friedrich Gurschler created the altar, the baptismal font and the lectern, while H. Peter Fellin painted the impressive altarpiece depicting the Most Holy Trinity - with the Virgin of Protection, embedded in the mountain landscape of the Rosengarten|Catinaccio, Schlern|Sciliar and Steinegg|Collepietra.

Another highlight are the colourful stained glass windows, designed by Prof. Widmoser and masterfully realised by the artist Ulrike Peer Huber. The Stations of the Cross were carved by Jakob Oberhollenzer and the church patrons, St Peter and St Paul, were created by Matthias Resch from Steinegg.

In the basement of the church you will find the Museum Steinegg and the Chapel of the Resurrection - a quiet place for contemplation. The cemetery, which is one of the most beautiful in South Tyrol, impresses with its artistically forged crosses and radiates a special tranquillity.

Useful information:
The church is always open during the day and is barrier-free.
Masses are always held on Saturdays at 7.30 pm and on Sundays at 7.00 am and 10.00 am. 

The church St. Walburg in Antholz Niedertal was built in the 15th century and expanded in 1954.

This parish church is located in the area of Maia Bassa (Untermais), at the end of Via Piave. The present bell tower stands on a 6-metre-high Romanesque base. The old Gothic church, built between the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, is located below the apse of the current building, which was erected between 1934 and 1936. Inside, there are some ancient Romanesque relics, a priceless Gothic altar, and a number of frescoes dating back to the fifteenth century. Masses in German: Mondays and Tuesdays: 7:00 a.m. Wednesdays from Easter to All Saints’ Day: 7:00 p.m. Wednesday from All Saints until Easter: 6:00 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays: 7:00 a.m. Saturdays - from Easter to All Saints: 7:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m. - from All Saints until Easter Saturday: 7:00 a.m. & 6:00 p.m. Sundays: 7:30 a.m. & 10:00 a.m. Masses in Italian: Sundays and public holidays in winter: 9:00 a.m. & 11:15 a.m. Sundays and public holidays in summer: 9:00 a.m.

The St. James Church is located near the pre-Christian burnt offering site of Tschaufis. The walls of the nave date back to the 12th century and the bell tower was built in Gothic style. The gothic winged altarpiece from 1517 is the most precious piece of the church.

Both the delightful Baroque-style pilgrimage church, built in 1304 and expanded in 1765, and the nearby cemetery with its artistic graveyard crosses made of copper and bronze by local artists are well worth a visit. The village of Madonna di Senales/Unser Frau celebrated its 700th anniversary as a place of pilgrimage in the year 2004. It is, in fact, one of the oldest pilgrimage centres in the entire Tyrol region.

The Ascension Church in Ehrenburg was first built in the year 1370. Today's building was built in the baroque period between 1698 and 1701. The mercy-painting was painted by I. A. Mölck (1755). In the crypt, there is an old statue of the Virgin Mary and other interesting paintings.

After the tight canyon at the entrance to the valley, the valley widens and you will see the chapel of the village of Monte S. Caterina/Katharinaberg on your right. The chapel is like a signpost for the village. Once upon a time, this rocky hill was crowned with the castle of the „Lords of Schnals“, which gave the valley its name. Not only the inhabitants, but also our guests enjoy life in the village: the mild climate, lots of sun, stillness, wonderful hiking routes with direct access to the Merano High Mountain Trail in the Texelgruppe Nature Park, as well as some picturesque views into the valley and over the mountains.

The parish church was built around 1180 and the Romanesque church was consecrated in 1184. This was replaced around 1500 by a late Gothic building with a three-aisled nave and a single-aisled choir. This is indicated by the year 1498 carved on the lintel of the side portal.

The location of the church directly above the Rienzsch1ucht led to an unfortunate event in 1688. After the parish tower had already been severely damaged by lightning, particularly in 1687, part of the crumbling rock collapsed a year later, taking with it part of the cemetery adjacent to the church and, according to local tradition, the old presbytery. Soon afterwards, the damage was repaired by building a retaining wall at the demolition site so that it was possible to walk around the church again, and the cemetery was extended towards the castle. Between 1794 and 1795, the church was extended to the west and the Gothic ribs were removed. The removed vault ribs were restored in 1959.

The last restorations date back to 1983. The interior is largely neo-Gothic from around 1870, although some of the wooden sculptures on the high altar date back to Adam Baldauf (1616 -1618). The gravestones of various Wolkensteins, the lords of Line (14th century) and the caretaker Caspar von Gufidaun, the great opponent of Cardinal Nikolaus Cusanus, who died in 1458, remind us of the history and connection with Rodenegg Castle. The well-kept cemetery with its lawn and exemplary wrought iron crosses contains around 200 graves and a simple cemetery chapel dating from 1697 with the image of St. Michael with the scales of the soul.
In 2008, the entire belfry was thoroughly renovated and new sound shutters were fitted to the tower openings in 2013.

St. Jacob’s Church San Giacomo’s Church, dedicated to the patron saint of pilgrims and travellers, is traditionally known as the oldest church in Val Gardena: its origins date back to the 12th century. | It is located right above Ortisei, along the ancient path, “Troi Paian”. From Ortisei you can reach the idyllic , sunny hamlet comfortably by ski- or summer bus or by car. Here you are surrounded by nature and you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view. After a 15-minute walk (slightly uphill) you will arrive to the San Giacomo Church. Alternatively, you can start from Ortisei and take a slightly sloping trail (Path of Dialogue), which takes you to the San Giacomo Church in about an hour. Another beautiful circular walk connects S. Cristina (Plesdinaz) with the church. The current overall appearance is Gothic, and the inside is part Gothic and part Baroque. The church features remarkable frescoes (late 15th century) in the presbytery. Wall paintings from the 16th century, illustrating the legend of San Giacomo (St. James), decorate the area near the pulpit. The local wood-carving tradition is represented in the main altar. Around 1750 the Vinazer-Pescosta brothers decorated it with spiral columns, gilded images of ancient church leaders, apostles and angels. The current sculptures and artwork on the main altar are replicas made by local carvers. The originals are on display at the Val Gardena Museum in Ortisei.

GUIDED TOURS to the church weekly in Winter and Summer. Reservation and more details at the Tourist Office Ortisei.

Located on the Passer Promenade, it was built between 1883 and 1885 in a neo-Gothic style. The church belongs to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Italy and is a true symbol. Particularly notable is the large Christ figure, blessing the faithful – a masterpiece made of Laas marble, inspired by Bertel Thorvaldsen’s statue.

The construction of the church is closely tied to the development of Merano as a spa town. As early as 1861, the first members of the Evangelical community began to organise in the city. In 1870, the first pastor was appointed, and in 1876 the Evangelical community of Merano was established as part of the Evangelical Church A.B. in Austria. This open, cosmopolitan atmosphere is still very much present in Merano today – the city has preserved its welcoming spirit over the centuries.

The building itself is steeped in a unique atmosphere. It sits amidst an idyllic garden and is crowned by a striking spire. The exterior walls are a true masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture, with intricate flying buttresses and pointed windows. The interior is kept simple, offering plenty of space for reflection and prayer. Noteworthy are the wooden reliefs of the altar and pulpit, created by Franz Xaver Pendl, as well as the impressive crucifix.

The Christ Church is not just a place of worship but also a cultural meeting point. Regular sacred music concerts and organ performances take place here, and those strolling along the Passer Promenade can often feel as though they have been transported to another country. The atmosphere of the garden, the imposing building, and the harmony between nature and architecture make the Evangelical Christ Church a truly special destination for anyone visiting Merano.

Merano, with its cosmopolitan character, invites people to explore different cultures and religions. The Christ Church stands as an extraordinary testament to this unique heritage and is a place that reflects both the faith and the diversity of life in Merano.

According to a 6 m-long inscription preserved in the presbytery, this simple, rectangular church with round apse in the east, was consecrated on 12 May 1142. It was painted around 1210 with outstanding and historically important Romanesque frescoes, which, among other things, show the planned sacrifice of Isaac by Abraham against a mountain backdrop. After the incorporation of the tower in around 1380, the church was decorated with Gothic paintings inside and also externally on the south wall. A wooden statue of St. Jakob from 1520 which was revamped in 1610, and two Baroque altars on the west wall, can also be seen. Below the church there is a shrine with simple but expressive pictures from the period around 1440.

This cathedral is dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of merchants, entrepreneurs and carters. It stands in what was once the commercial center of the town, where goods coming from north and south were traded. The construction started in 1302 and continued until the middle of the 15th century. It is a large Gothic "hall" church. The south side, facing the main market square, was richly decorated and became the main facade. The Gotic portals are richly decorated, and there is a fine 14th century statue of St. Nicholas and an imposing late 15th century fresco of Saint Christopher on this facade. Masses (in German only) Weekdays: 9:00 a.m. Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Sundays: 8:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.

The Romanesque St. Sisinius' Church is situated on a plateau above Lasa/Laas, the village of marble in South Tyrol. Its rare choir tower church was built on the ruins of a former building. Skeleton and clay fragments from the Bronze Age even prove the existence of a cult worship place. The hill’s many years of settlement are probably due to its location. Even today, visitors enjoy the wonderful view of the surrounding mountains that extend to the Laaser Ferner glacier.

The church itself was first mentioned in 1290 and is dedicated to the martyr Sisinius, who lived in the Nonsberg area of South Tyrol. Surrounded by a high asylum wall in a Romanesque herringbone pattern, the eastern wall has a Gothic pointed arch gate devoid of a gate wing. The choir is located in the tower, which is covered by a stone tower pyramid. The nave, on the other hand, has two round arched windows, a protruding triumphal arch and a portal made of pure Lasa marble.

The church has no sacral furniture and is closed.