Starting from the heart of Siusi allo Sciliar, in Oswald von Wolkenstein Square, this circular route leads visitors to one of South Tyrol’s most fascinating cultural landscapes: the ancient craft district that, for centuries, animated the slopes of the Sciliar.
The trail winds along Via Santner and Via Hauenstein, passing through the Kohlstatt area before continuing on Via Matzl and entering the charming Durn Path. From here, it reaches Via Schmied, once filled with the rhythmic sound of blacksmiths, and continues along peaceful meadow paths surrounded by greenery and the quiet of the rural landscape.
The route then crosses Vicolo Valzura and an old cobbled alley, a beautifully preserved historical remnant, before returning toward the village center along Via San Osvaldo and finally arriving back at the starting point.
This itinerary offers the chance to explore what was, from the Middle Ages until around 1978, a true alpine production hub. Here stood:
- 12 watermills, including the renowned Tschon Mill (1538)
- 9 forges, powered by charcoal from nearby charcoal pits
- 4 sawmills
- 3 tanneries
- 2 fulling mills
All these activities relied on the energy of the Rio Freddo, flowing nearby and serving for centuries as the main power source for the local community.
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