Traditions we are proud of
Discover the art and culture of the Ladin people
Thanks to its remote location – the first road into the valley was only completed in 1856 – Val Gardena has preserved a rich cultural heritage that remains alive to this day. Traditional costumes, music, religious and seasonal festivals, local cuisine, myths and legends all reflect a way of life shaped over centuries by the surrounding mountains. Val Gardena is especially renowned for two traditions: its unique trilingual culture and its exceptional woodcarving craftsmanship. During your holidays to the Dolomites, you'll have the opportunity to experience the authentic culture and warm hospitality of the Ladin people at first hand.
Like a time capsule, Val Gardena has preserved centuries-old traditions and craftsmanship that continue to thrive today.
Woodcarving
Val Gardena's world-renowned woodcarving tradition dates back to the 17th century. What began as a creative winter craft evolved into an internationally recognised art form, with sacred and secular sculptures now admired far beyond South Tyrol. Today, you can discover exceptional works by local artists at Galeria Unika, the ART52exhibition and the Museum Gherdëina. A hand-carved angel or nativity figure also makes a beautiful and authentic souvenir from your holiday in the Dolomites.
The Ladin language
While South Tyrol is officially bilingual, the Ladin valleys – including Val Gardena – are proudly trilingual. Alongside German and Italian, the ancient Ladin language is still spoken in everyday life. With around 30,000 speakers, Ladin is a Rhaeto-Romance language that developed from the Vulgar Latin once spoken throughout the Romanised Alps. Today, it remains an official language, is taught in local schools and continues to play an important role in preserving the unique identity and cultural heritage of the Ladin people.
