Capital of the Upper Venosta Valley and the third largest municipality in the province... #tuttitaly
Malles, the capital of the Upper Venosta Valley, is a charming village at an altitude of 1050 meters, surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Ortles Group, the Venosta Alps, and the Sesvenna Group. Thanks to its mild and dry climate and unspoiled nature, Malles is particularly loved by hiking and nature enthusiasts.
Nature and Sports
The surrounding mountains offer numerous opportunities for hiking, cycling, or horseback riding, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the scenic beauty of the Upper Venosta Valley. Well-marked trails lead to alpine lakes, waterfalls, hidden valleys, and breathtaking panoramas.
Malles is also an ideal starting point for more challenging excursions, such as climbing Mount Cevedale or Mount Ortles, the highest mountains in the entire region. Rock climbing enthusiasts can challenge the cliffs of the Venosta Alps, while water sports enthusiasts can enjoy rafting or canyoning along the Adige River.
Culture
Malles' cultural heritage is equally fascinating. The Malles Castle, dating back to the 13th century, dominates the village and offers a panoramic view of the valley. The Romanesque churches of San Benedetto and San Giovanni are historical testimonies of great artistic value.
Parish Church of Santa Maria Assunta
Despite its modern appearance, this church has ancient origins dating back to the 13th century, as evidenced by documents from 1292. However, the church has undergone several reconstructions over the centuries. The first reconstruction occurred in the early 16th century, following the Battle of Calva, during which the Engadine army destroyed and set fire to the city in 1499. Subsequently, in 1799, during the Napoleonic invasion, the church was again burned down and destroyed. The church's current structure dates back to the 19th-century reconstruction, which also included expanding the interior spaces.
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta's facade is inside the town cemetery. It is characterized by a neoclassical style, enriched by pilasters joining the sizeable triangular pediment. The church's interiors are organized in a single nave with barrel vaults.
Semicircular windows along the side walls allow abundant natural light to enter, illuminating the works of art and frescoes that decorate the vaults. In the apse, there is a fresco depicting the Coronation of Mary, which overlooks the 1842 altar, also depicting the Assumption. On the altar's sides are wooden statues of Saint Peter and Saint Paul.
The bell tower of the Church of Santa Maria Assunta dates back to the first reconstruction of the church in 1531 and is still intact. Characterized by a sharp-pointed roof and a stone fence, the bell tower features a large Gothic arched window in the bell chamber and frescoes on the clock wall. The cornerstones enrich the edges of the bell tower.
Gastronomy
Local traditions remain in Malles, with popular festivals, fairs, and markets occurring yearly. The local cuisine offers typical dishes of South Tyrolean cuisine, such as speck, canederli (dumplings), and mountain cheeses.
Conclusion
Malles is ideal for those seeking tranquility, contact with nature, and authenticity. Its privileged location, surrounded by mountains, offers a unique environment to rejuvenate and enjoy a vacation filled with well-being and natural beauty.
