Colorful little houses, shopping alleys, picturesque medieval squares and a mountain landscape that seems within reach: Vipiteno the Alpine town of Sterzing in the Eisack Valley enchants its visitors with a unique charm. A few years ago, the small town, was also named one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
VIPITENO
Just 1h by train from Bolzano, the picturesque main street, formed by the Old Town and the New Town, still shines in the glow of the late Middle Ages and invites you to stop by. The town hall, with its Gothic council chamber that now also houses the city council, testifies to the prosperity of the 15th century, when with ore mining Sterzing was in its heyday.
In the south of the city, culture lovers will find the parish church “Our Lady of the Marsh,” a real gem, and the Teutonic Order complex that now houses the Multscher Museum and the City Museum. Get a glimpse into the lives of the Teutonic Knights of the past and admire parts of the Ulm sculptor’s masterpiece. In the parish church you can admire the original figures of the famous Multscher altar.
A few kilometers south of the city is Badger Castle. Learn about the medieval world and culture of the Knights. A tranquil 7-hole golf course and riding stables are also located at the foot of the castle. Enjoy more than a fun-filled vacation in the Alpine town of the Eisack Valley.
CITY HALL
The Sterzing City Hall was built according to the plan of architect Jörg Kölderer. Even today, it testifies to the richness and classical urban design of the modern period. In addition to the original council chamber, where the city council still meets today, the inner courtyard with a copy of the Stele of the God Mithras is worth a visit.
Discover Sterzing, one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages, with our guide who will take you to a bygone era and detail the development of the Alpine town. From the history of the city through the various architectural styles, relics of mining and influences of various eras. Guided tours are available from early May to late October every Friday.
Meeting point: 4 p.m., in front of the Sterzing Tourist Office on City Square; duration 1 hour.
CHRISTMAS TIME IN VIPITENO
Glowing garlands and lots of twinkling children’s eyes, original gift ideas and exquisite delicacies to tickle the palate-during the Advent and Christmas season, from late November to early January, the medieval city of Sterzing shows off its most romantic and seductive side and transforms itself into an authentic winter fairy tale.
At the foot of the Tower of Twelve, built in 1486, hand-carved nativity scenes and traditional Christmas decorations can be admired; local artisans offer their work for sale, while the streets, squares and corners of Sterzing smell of freshly baked Christmas cookies.
Be enchanted by the town’s charm and enjoy unforgettable moments as you stroll lazily through Sterzing’s ancient narrow streets, savoring the very special atmosphere that surrounds the town during the Advent season-perhaps you do so during a carriage ride through town or even skating under the Twelve o’clock Tower. The Sterzing Christmas Market begins on November 25 and ends on January 6. Daily from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
