The Churches of Nova Ponente: A Journey Through Faith, Art, and Legend

Set amid the breathtaking landscapes of the Latemar and Sciliar ranges, Nova Ponente preserves a religious heritage of great historical and artistic value. Its churches, nestled in the quiet of meadows and forests, tell not only of Alpine spirituality but also of the identity of a community deeply connected to its land and traditions.

The Little Church of St. Agatha: A Devotion That Defies Time

About an hour’s walk from the center of Nova Ponente stands the evocative Little Church of St. Agatha, already documented in 1318. It rises on an ancient site, perhaps frequented as far back as prehistoric times.

Originally built in Romanesque style, it was later restored with Gothic elements. Dedicated to St. Agatha, martyr and protector against fire together with St. Florian, the church houses a fine wooden altar from 1619 featuring a painting by Ozario Giovanelli depicting St. Agatha, St. Anne, the Virgin Mary, and the Child Jesus. On the exterior walls, frescoes of St. Christopher and scenes from the saint’s life are still visible.

The little church is closed to the public but can be visited upon request at the Unterkofl farmhouse, which has kept the keys since 1332 — a fascinating detail that adds an authentic charm to any visit.

St. Helena: 15th-Century Frescoes and Timeless Views

Built around 1100 in a panoramic position, the Church of St. Helena overlooks the Dolomite landscapes with a magnificent view of the Latemar, Catinaccio, and Sciliar mountains.

Inside, it preserves some of the most remarkable frescoes of the 15th-century Bolzano school, visible on the apse, walls, and vaults. Outside, a depiction of St. Christopher greets visitors, while the south wall bears images of the Virgin and Child alongside Saints Catherine, Barbara, and Margaret.

An interesting fact: the church bell is the oldest in South Tyrol. According to local legend, St. Helena stands upon a stairway of silver — perhaps a memory of the area’s ancient mining activity. The church is open daily, with keys available from the nearest farmhouse.

The Parish Church of Nova Ponente: A Symbol of Community and Art

At the heart of the village stands the Parish Church of Saints Ulrich and Wolfgang, consecrated on July 5, 1455. Entirely clad in sandstone, it is a testament to the skill of local craftsmen.

The church was commissioned by the priest Johannes Steel and bears on its façade the coat of arms of the Diocese of Trento — an eagle — alongside that of Bishop Georg Hack, which later became the official emblem of the village.

A popular legend tells of a loan granted by the inhabitants of the Val di Fiemme for the construction of the church. The Fiemme villagers, through a clever trick, rang their bell early to claim repayment ahead of time. The people of Nova Ponente, bound by their word, were forced to comply and ceded jurisdiction over the forests and pastures below the Pala di Santa, including the Corno Bianco and Corno Nero. The tale is still passed down among local families today.

A Journey Through Faith, Art, and Nature

The churches of Nova Ponente represent a perfect harmony of Alpine spirituality, sacred art, and folk tradition. Whether it’s the remote St. Agatha, the scenic St. Helena, or the parish church at the heart of the village, each building tells an age-old story of faith, beauty, and legend. An unmissable itinerary for those wishing to immerse themselves in the most authentic soul of South Tyrol.