The Churches of Braies: Alpine Spirituality and Timeless Memories
In South Tyrol, religion has never been just a matter of faith, but an essential part of everyday life—especially within rural communities. The small chapels, often built even in the most remote villages, bear witness to the deep devotion of the people.
In Alta Pusteria, this bond between spirituality and landscape remains clearly visible. In the municipality of Braies alone—nestled among mountains and forests—there are two main churches and as many as eight smaller chapels. A true spiritual and cultural journey through the heart of the Dolomites.
The Church on Lake Braies: Faith, Beauty, and History
The Church on Lake Braies, consecrated in 1904, is one of the most iconic sights of the Dolomites. Framed by forests and reflected in the crystal-clear waters of the lake, it has become both a place of pilgrimage and a beloved attraction for its beauty and historical significance.
Among its distinguished visitors was Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, who visited the site with his wife shortly before their tragic fate in Sarajevo.
A Role During World War II
During World War II, the little church and the lake were the setting of a dramatic yet hopeful episode. In May 1945, 136 prisoners from the Dachau concentration camp—including members of the Stauffenberg family, Prince Leopold of Prussia, Winston Churchill’s nephew, and several high-ranking clergy—were brought here by the Nazis to be used as hostages. On May 1 they were freed, and four days later taken into the custody of the Americans, who brought them safely to Sicily, from where they returned home.
The Parish Church of San Vito
The Parish Church of San Vito, first mentioned in 1335, received its own curate only in 1704 and was officially elevated to parish status in 1891. The building preserves architectural and artistic details of great charm.
Inside, the finely decorated ribbed vault and the Neo-Gothic high altar lend a majestic tone to the sacred space. On the southern exterior wall, a sundial and a marble plaque bearing the names of the church’s curates tell the story of enduring faith through the centuries.
The Church of the Redeemer in Ferrara di Braies
The Church of the Redeemer, in the hamlet of Ferrara di Braies, was built in 1735 on the site of an earlier chapel dating back to 1690. Despite its modest size, it holds true treasures of sacred art.
During restoration work in 1981, ancient frescoes of great historical value were discovered, adding further importance to the church. Highlights include a richly crafted processional cross; statues of Saint Nicholas and Saint Florian; and a distinctive baroque pulpit, emblematic of both the deep faith and the artisanal mastery of the valley’s people.
A Journey Through Faith, Art, and Memory
Visiting the churches of Braies means embarking on a journey that unites spirituality, art, history, and nature. Each sacred building tells a fragment of the valley’s past—expressing a humble yet steadfast faith, and at times, echoing extraordinary events that shaped European history.
From the still waters of the lake to the Gothic and Baroque vaults, from legend to documented history, Braies continues to speak to those who have ears to listen—and hearts to feel.