Carano
Discovering Varena: The Pearl of Val di Fiemme
Varena, also known as Varéna in Trentino dialect, is a picturesque hamlet in the municipality of Ville di Fiemme, located at the foot of the majestic Corno Nero in the Dolomites. This vibrant village, with just over 800 inhabitants, was an autonomous municipality until 2020, when it merged with the municipalities of Carano and Daiano to become the new municipality of Ville di Fiemme.
Physical Geography
Varena is located in the northeast region of Trentino, a short distance from the Lavazè Pass plateau and the border with the autonomous province of Bolzano. Its privileged location makes it an ideal starting point for excursions in the fascinating alpine landscape.
History and Symbols
Varena is one of the oldest "Villes" in the valley and was rebuilt after a fire destroyed it in 1765. The city's coat of arms is a blue shield with an image of a rocky mountain illuminated by the golden sun. The banner bears vivid colors, white and red with shades of yellow and blue.
Monuments and Places of Interest
The house of the painter Antonio Longo in Varena is open to the public and represents an interesting tourist attraction. In addition, in the streets of the village, it is possible to see numerous 19th-century porphyry fountains that flow with the best drinking water in the valley. Varena is also famous for its ancient thermal establishments, which in the 1980s were very popular for hay baths with aromatic herbs.
The Church of Saints Peter and Paul is a treasure of inestimable historical and artistic value. Consecrated in 1193, many of its medieval frescoes were lost due to subsequent renovations. The church currently contains numerous paintings by the master of the Fiemme painting school, Don Antonio Longo, and some fragments of frescoes attributed to the Master of Lisignago.
Attractions
The Varena Nativity Scene, known as "On the road to Bethlehem," offers a route of over 700 meters and an area of 2500 square meters. Built since 1989, this Nativity scene is composed of over 30 buildings inhabited by hundreds of figures and represents a magical experience for adults and children alike.
Just 8 km from Varena is the Lavazè Pass plateau, a tourist destination loved by summer hikers and winter sports enthusiasts. This winter sports paradise offers over 80 km of cross-country and alpine skiing, and has recently undergone important renovation work in view of the 2013 World Ski Championships held in Val di Fiemme.
Society
Varena is a place to spend holidays immersed in nature and tranquility. Its main attraction is the wonderful alpine scenery, which represents an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves nature, skiing, or hiking. The inhabitants of Varena, together with those of the other villages in Val di Fiemme, have a collective nickname denoting their friendliness and generosity.
Traditions and Folklore
In the past, the collection and sale of Arbutus unedos, a very popular type of wild fruit in the area, was an important tradition for the inhabitants of Varena and Val di Fiemme in general.
In conclusion, Varena represents an ideal tourist destination for those looking for a bit of peace and tranquility in a unique natural and gastronomic context, where local culture and Catholic spirituality blend perfectly. Come and visit Varena and discover the beauty of Val di Fiemme!
