Glorenza: The Fortified Village of Val Venosta
Extraordinary in every corner, Glorenza (Glurns in German) is a small gem nestled in the heart of Val Venosta. With around 900 inhabitants, it is considered the smallest town in Italy — and one of the most fascinating. The perfectly preserved 16th-century walls, towers, medieval arcades, and patrician houses make this village an open-air museum. It is no surprise that it belongs to the prestigious association “The Most Beautiful Villages of Italy”.
A Glorious and Turbulent Past
First mentioned in 1163, Glorenza has endured turbulent times, being destroyed several times until Emperor Maximilian I of Habsburg, deeply moved, ordered the construction of the defensive walls that still embrace the old town today. It later became an important commercial crossroads thanks to the rock salt trade from Tyrol to Switzerland. After the First World War, in 1919, Glorenza was annexed to Italy.
During the Fascist era, the area experienced major transformations: between Malles and Glorenza, the Vallo Alpino, a system of military fortifications commissioned by Mussolini to prevent a possible invasion by Nazi Germany despite the so-called Pact of Steel, is still visible. One of the most important remains from that period is bunker no. 20, near the source of the Adige River, which can be visited through guided tours organized during the summer months.
Arcades, Gothic Houses, and Cows in the Center
One of the most fascinating features of Glorenza is its arched arcades, dating back to the 13th century and partly buried over time due to the rising ground caused by floods. Strolling through these streets is like stepping back in time, surrounded by frescoed houses, Gothic facades, and hidden courtyards.
A curious detail? It’s not unusual to see a cow wandering through the center, a reminder of the town’s deep connection to its agricultural roots — a place where modern life still coexists with rural traditions.
Churches and Architecture Not to Miss
Among the religious landmarks are the Parish Church of San Pancrazio, with Gothic and Baroque elements, and the older Church of San Giacomo di Söles, located just outside the town. Both are worth a visit to discover a quieter, more spiritual side of this history-rich city.
Glorenza is a timeless treasure where every alley tells a story and every view takes your breath away. A village to experience slowly, perhaps staying in one of its ancient residences, for a truly authentic journey through South Tyrol.
