The Stone Men of Val Sarentino and the Legend of the Witch Pachlerzottl

Val Sarentino, a renowned hiking destination and keeper of ancient traditions, is famous for its peculiar Stone Men (Stoanernen Mandln): stone pillars made of sandstone located at the summit of Hohe Reisch at 2,003 meters. Usually, such formations in the high mountains are created by hikers or shepherds and serve as landmarks. However, the rock carvings and flint tools found in the area suggest that the Stone Men of Val Sarentino have origins dating back to the Stone Age.

In winter, when a thick fog envelops the summit, these stone piles take on a mysterious aura, evoking ancient stories and legends. It is said that the devil and witches used to gather in this place to perform rituals, celebrations, or cause violent storms. Among these legendary figures is the witch "Pachlerzottl", the most famous in Val Sarentino, who is said to have frequented these areas.

The story of the witch Pachlerzottl, however, is steeped in sadness. Her real name was Barbara Pächlerin, one of the many women accused of witchcraft and sentenced to the stake in 1540. Originally from Villandro, Barbara was the subject of gossip and slander since childhood, alongside her mother and sister. Seeking a quieter life, she moved with her family to Sarentino around 1510, where she worked at the Stöckelehof farm.

After marrying Chuenz Pächler, she became a farmer at the Pachler farm in Windlahn. The couple had six children, and at around 45 or 50 years old, Barbara was accused of witchcraft and tortured in the tower of Castel Reineck. According to the court records, Barbara Pächlerin was said to have attempted to poison and kill a certain Pachmann-Anndl, whom she suspected was her husband's lover. However, it is not possible to confirm whether this was the true reason for the accusation.

After a forced confession, made following the torture, on August 28, 1540, the woman was tragically sentenced to the stake. The nickname "Pachlerzottl" was only attributed to her in the 20th century, combining the name “Pachler” with the South Tyrolean term “zottl”, meaning “untidy” or “disheveled”.