Moso in Passiria: Art, legends and nature among the mountains of South Tyrol
Moso, located at 1,007 metres above sea level, is the main centre of Upper Val Passiria, just 27 km from Merano along the spectacular panoramic road leading to the Timmelsjoch Pass. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery and on the edge of the Tessa Group Nature Park, this village represents a perfect blend of history, culture and nature.
Between Gothic and Baroque: The Church of the Ascension
One of Moso’s must-see landmarks is the Parish Church of the Ascension, built between 1402 and 1403 in the Gothic style. Its slender bell tower, 52 metres high, dominates the entire landscape and can be seen from afar.
Artistic highlights not to miss:
- The painting above the altar, in Baroque style, which creates a harmonious contrast with the Gothic architecture
- The Stations of the Cross, created by Nikolaus Auer, a renowned artist from the Val Passiria School of Painting
The Stieber Waterfalls: Power and beauty
Just a short distance from the village centre, you’ll find the Stieber Waterfalls, a powerful cascade offering one of the most spectacular natural scenes in the entire valley. Easy to reach, they are an ideal destination for relaxing, scenic hikes suitable for every season.
The Bunker-Mooseum: History and nature in a unique place
One of the most fascinating and unusual attractions in Moso is the Bunker-Mooseum, a museum housed inside a former military bunker that has been completely redeveloped. The structure hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions that explore Val Passiria in all its many facets.
Inside you’ll find:
- Stories and local legends
- Exhibits on the flora and fauna of the Tessa Group Nature Park
- Sections dedicated to the modern history of the valley
- Insights into the Monteneve Mines, among the highest mining sites in Europe
The museum also serves as the official visitor centre of the Nature Park, making it the perfect starting point for hikes and nature trails.
A path through history
From the Bunker-Mooseum, a marked trail leads to a nearby archaeological site — an opportunity to combine nature, walking and the discovery of the region’s ancient roots.
Moso in Passiria is a crossroads of stories, nature and emotion, nestled among the peaks of South Tyrol. From its thundering waterfalls to the silence of the bunker tunnels, from frescoed churches to archaeological paths, every corner here tells a living and authentic story of Val Passiria.
