For the people of Val Sarentino, traditions are not only elements of social cohesion but also the most precious heritage that connects younger generations with those of the past.
The Sacred Heart Fires
This tradition is linked to historical events of the 19th century, when the Tyrolean Diet, faced with the Napoleonic threat, vowed to entrust the land to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It is therefore a traditional South Tyrolean celebration in honour of the Sacred Heart. Since then, fires have been lit every year on the first Sunday after Corpus Christi in the Sarntal mountains.
The Feast of the Sacred Heart is very popular in South Tyrol because it recalls the moment when, on the eve of the Battle of Mount Isel against the Franco-Bavarian troops, the Tyrolean patriot Andreas Hofer renewed his vow and led his men to victory.
The traditional costume of Val Sarentino
Val Sarentino is one of the few areas in South Tyrol where people still wear the traditional costume. It is not worn daily; it is mostly used on Sundays. The dress is usually simple in appearance, yet refined and finely crafted. It is considered one of the most beautiful traditional costumes in the entire German-speaking area, with a clean style and an essence that has remained unchanged over the centuries.
The Sarentino people and their unmistakable dialect
Another important characteristic of Val Sarentino is undoubtedly its people. History tells us that the inhabitants of the valley are unique characters, distinctive and difficult to imitate. In South Tyrol, they are especially known for their humour and the many jokes they tell. This is also mentioned by Marx Sittich von Wolkenstein, who wrote in 1600: “Val Sarentino is the most beautiful and cheerful land in the region!”
