Predoi: Copper, resilience and wellbeing in the Ahrn Valley
In the heart of the Ahrn Valley, Predoi is a village with a fascinating and meaningful past. Known since ancient times for its intense copper mining activity, this small settlement has managed to transform its identity — from a mining centre into a place of healing and culture — without ever losing touch with its roots.
An ancient mine in the heart of the Alps
The St. Ignatius mine represents the historical soul of Predoi. Here, for centuries, a great number of inhabitants worked in copper extraction, which was the main source of livelihood for the entire community.
The mine’s origins are ancient: in 1864, a miner discovered a Celtic axe, proof of mining activity dating back to pre-Christian times. The first written records of copper extraction date to 1479, when the mine was so efficient that it posed strong competition to the famous Schwaz mine in the Austrian Tyrol.
The copper of Predoi: a coveted treasure
The copper extracted in Predoi was considered among the finest in Europe. The commercial administration centre was located in Cadipietra, home to the “Ahrn Syndicate”, a consortium that contributed to the valley’s economic development. Even the Bishops of Brixen invested in the mine, recognizing its potential.
To keep the mining structures running, a large amount of timber was required, leading to significant deforestation of the surrounding areas. This in turn increased the risk of avalanches, whose connection with the lack of trees was not yet understood at the time.
Crisis and rebirth: from copper to bobbin lace
Over time, events such as the avalanche that destroyed the foundries of San Giovanni brought the sector to crisis. Despite the construction of a new foundry near the mine, operations ceased permanently in 1894, causing a sharp rise in unemployment.
In response to the crisis, a new form of craftsmanship was born — today a true local pride: the art of bobbin lace-making. Introduced and promoted by the village priests, this delicate art allowed many families to support themselves and today represents one of the most refined traditions in South Tyrol.
A granary turned museum
Next to the mine once stood a granary, where wheat used to pay the workers was stored. Today, this space houses an interesting Mining Museum, rich in wooden models, historical maps, documents, paintings and period artefacts that tell the story of Predoi’s past.
The Predoi Climate Centre: breathing health
Inside the tunnels of the old mine lies the evocative Predoi Climate Centre, a natural environment dedicated to speleotherapy, or cave therapy.
Thanks to air that is completely free of allergens and dust, with 100% constant humidity and temperatures between 8 and 10°C, this centre is particularly suitable for those suffering from asthma, allergies or respiratory problems. It is a unique experience where the mountain itself becomes medicine.
Predoi is much more than a former mining village. It is a place where history meets wellbeing, where tradition blends with nature, and where every visit becomes a journey through the past, culture and self-care. If you love the authentic mountain, you will find something special here — in every season.
