Colle Santa Lucia
Welcome to Colle Santa Lucia
If you are looking for a place surrounded by the mountains of the Dolomites, immersed in nature, then Colle Santa Lucia is the place for you. With its 343 inhabitants, this municipality in the province of Belluno welcomes you with its typical Alpine atmosphere.
Physical geography
The territory of Colle Santa Lucia extends between 1300 and 1500 meters above sea level, circumscribed by the valleys of Codalunga, Fiorentina, and Cordevole. In the area, Mount Pore (2405 m) stands out, but the Nuvolau group culminating in Averau (2647 m) offers the highest altitudes. Furthermore, the village also includes part of the Giau Pass, which allows connections between the Agordo and Ampezzo areas.
History
The history of Colle Santa Lucia dates back to 1002, when the Judgment of Livinallongo, which also included the territories of the municipality, was part of the County of Isarco, then passed under the control of the Episcopal Principality of Brixen in 1027. The first documents date back to 1145 when the "Puchperc, qui dicitur Wersil" farmhouse was donated by Bishop Hartmann of Brixen to the Abbey of Novacella. In 1803, the secularization of church assets began after the temporal power of the bishop, which lasted 776 years. In 1805, Colle Santa Lucia was annexed to the Kingdom of Bavaria, together with the County of Tyrol and the former Principality of Trento, after Austrian defeats against the Napoleonic army. In 1813, Austrian troops occupied the village, after Austria declared war on France. The Congress of Vienna in 1815 reassigned Colle Santa Lucia to Austria of Franz II of Habsburg-Lorraine, and in 1817, the old Tyrolean judgments, including that of Livinallongo, were restored. In 1835, the establishment of municipalities remained administrative units subordinate to the judgments. In 1849, the abolition of high ownership and the emancipation of the soil "Grundentlastung" were introduced by Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria. In 1862, a new framework law for the regulation of municipalities was approved.
Culture and traditions
Colle Santa Lucia is located in the Fodom valley, one of the five valleys of Ladinia, an area that preserves its traditions and original language. The Ladin language is still taught in schools, and the cultural association "Vèrdon de Fodom" organizes cultural events that strengthen the preservation of Ladin culture.
Must-see
Colle Santa Lucia is an ideal starting point for excursions and walks in the mountains of the Dolomites. The Giau Pass offers a splendid view of the surrounding mountains and valleys below, while the hamlet of Andraz, located northeast of the municipality, is a beautiful example of Ladin architecture. The village also offers a series of museums and galleries, including the Etnografico de Ra Regoles Museum, dedicated to the history and traditions of Ladinia.
Events
During the summer period, Colle Santa Lucia hosts numerous events for its visitors, including the Feast of San Lorenzo and the Festa dei Fursil. The Festa dei Fursil commemorates the discovery of a gold mine that had already been confirmed in 1177 to the property of the Abbey of Novacella.
Typical cuisine
The typical cuisine of Colle Santa Lucia reflects the traditions of Ladinia and Alto Adige. From "Gnocchi de Ciaj" to "Purtè," passing through honey-based sweets, the flavors of this region are highly appreciated. Additionally, local wine and liquors enrich the culinary experience.
Conclusion
Colle Santa Lucia is a municipality where nature, culture, and tradition merge to offer visitors an authentic and unforgettable experience. The Dolomite mountains offer breathtaking views, while the preservation of the Ladin language and culture testifies to the history and traditions of the territory. Come to visit Colle Santa Lucia and discover the beauty of this corner of Veneto.
