Art and cultural sights in the Dolomites

Art and Culture

Discover the history, traditions and special places of Val Gardena.

Discover culture
Places worth discovering in Val Gardena

Places worth discovering in Val Gardena

Val Gardena is not only known for its impressive Dolomite landscape, but also for its rich history, Ladin culture, traditional craftsmanship and charming cultural sites.

Panoramic view of Selva di Val Gardena in the Dolomites
History

Val Gardena

Val Gardena stretches for around 25 kilometres from Ponte Gardena to the Sella Pass and includes the three well-known villages of Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva di Val Gardena.

Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Dolomites, the valley is today one of South Tyrol’s most popular holiday destinations. Val Gardena was first mentioned in the year 999 as “Forestum ad Gredine”. To this day, the Ladin language, local traditions and alpine way of life continue to shape the identity of the valley.

Chapel in Vallunga in Val Gardena with Dolomite scenery
Sights

Historic places in Val Gardena

In addition to its spectacular nature, Val Gardena offers many cultural sights and historic places that are worth discovering during your holiday.

Maria Hilf pilgrimage church in Selva di Val Gardena
St. Sylvester’s Chapel in Vallunga
The ruins of Wolkenstein Castle from the 13th century
Traditional Val Gardena costume during a festive parade
Tradition

The traditional costume of Val Gardena

The traditional costume of Val Gardena is considered one of the most beautiful in the Alpine region. In former times, colours, decorations and details could reveal a person’s age, family status or social role.

Today, the costume is mainly worn during religious celebrations, village festivals and traditional parades. One of the most impressive events is “Val Gardena in Costume”, a colourful and authentic celebration that takes place every year in August.

Traditional wood carving from Val Gardena with handmade figures
Craftsmanship

Wood carving in Val Gardena

Val Gardena is famous far beyond South Tyrol for its traditional wood carving.

For centuries, local wood carvers have passed their knowledge and skills from generation to generation. Hand-carved figures, nativity scenes and artistic wooden works from Val Gardena are appreciated internationally and remain one of the valley’s most important cultural traditions.

Cultural places in Selva di Val Gardena

Three special places for quiet moments, fascinating history and small discoveries around Selva di Val Gardena. Perfect for guests who want to experience more than nature alone.

Maria Hilf pilgrimage church in Selva di Val Gardena Church
Culture & history

Maria Hilf

A valued pilgrimage site with a long history: peaceful, atmospheric and ideal for a short cultural pause in the heart of Selva di Val Gardena.

Discover more
St. Sylvester’s Chapel in Vallunga Chapel
Quiet place

St. Sylvester’s Chapel

Small, peaceful and beautifully located – perfect for an easy walk combined with a quiet cultural stop in Vallunga.

Discover more
Ruins of Wolkenstein Castle in Vallunga Castle
Historic place

Wolkenstein Castle

The historic castle ruins in Vallunga tell stories of Selva’s past and offer an interesting destination for guests who enjoy combining culture, history and nature.

Discover more
Panoramic view of Selva di Val Gardena and the Dolomites Surroundings
Discover more

Selva di Val Gardena & surroundings

Cultural sites, natural landscapes and special places around Selva di Val Gardena – ideal for getting to know the village, its traditions and its beautiful surroundings even better.

Discover more