Tures and Ahrn Valley: Where traditions live every day
In the Tures and Ahrn Valley, ancient traditions are not just memories of the past but an integral part of everyday life. The local population, deeply connected to its roots, proudly celebrates rituals, customs and festivities that tell the cultural identity of this Alpine valley.
Traditions that bring the whole community together
Among the most cherished events that take place every year are:
The Krampus Run (mid-November to December): frightening figures that precede the arrival of St. Nicholas the following day. The Krampus, dressed as devils, parade through the village streets with shouts, bells and infernal choreographies.
The return of the cattle from the alpine pastures (in autumn): a festival of colours and sounds, where cows and goats return to the villages adorned with ribbons and floral crowns, greeted by traditional songs, folk dances and food stalls.
The Sacred Heart Fires: on the evening of Corpus Christi Sunday, the mountains light up with bonfires arranged in the shape of crosses, hearts and Christian symbols. A spectacular tradition that combines faith and visual beauty, visible throughout the valley.
The refined art of bobbin lace-making: Pride of the valley
An exclusive tradition of the Tures and Ahrn Valley is the craft of bobbin lace-making, an ancient art that has become both an economic resource and a symbol of identity.
How it all began
In 1893, after the closure of the copper mine in Predoi, many families suddenly found themselves without an income. Thanks to the efforts of the then parish priest Franz Kleinlercher and the mine’s owners, the first bobbin lace courses were organised to provide an alternative source of work for the women of the valley.
The pioneer: Rosa Kofler Mittermair
The technique was taught by Rosa Kofler Mittermair, an extraordinary woman who had learned the art of bobbin lace in Vienna, London and Slovenia. Thanks to her, the first schools spread rapidly, involving many local women and creating a true network of artisans.
Today: An art looking to the future
In 1994, the Predoi Bobbin Lace School Association was founded, which still promotes courses and preserves this precious art. The lacework produced in the valley is now internationally renowned and appreciated for its quality and elegance.
Every year, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano subsidises courses to learn this technique, preserving a tradition that unites history, creativity and community spirit.
The Tures and Ahrn Valley is a place where traditions are not kept in a museum but lived, handed down and renewed. Taking part in a village festival or watching skilled hands at work on bobbin lace means coming into contact with a living culture, made of authentic gestures, sharing and passion. A journey here is also a journey through time — to the truest soul of South Tyrol.
