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Welcome to Alto Adige!
If you are looking for a unique Italian province, Alto Adige is the place for you! Located on the border with Austria, this bilingual region of Italian and German is a gem in the Triveneto.
A province with many names
Let's start with toponymy. The official name of the province, as written in the special statute region of 1972 and subsequent state implementing rules, is "Province of Bolzano" or "Autonomous Province of Bolzano". In German, the official translation is "Provinz Bozen" or "Autonome Provinz Bozen". However, article 116 of the Constitution of the Italian Republic states "Alto Adige/Südtirol". In order to respect all official forms, the province uses the double denomination "Autonomous Province of Bolzano - Alto Adige" (in German, "Autonome Provinz Bozen - Südtirol").
The inhabitants of the province are generally called Altoatesini, although in Italian alternative names such as Sud Tirolo, Sudtirolo or Tirolo del Sud are also used. The name "Südtirol" was used during the Habsburg domination to indicate today's Trentino or the southern part of Tyrol.
A mix of cultures
Alto Adige is characterized by bilingualism and cultural diversity. In addition to Italian, high German and Ladin language are widely used. The region is famous for its Austro-German culture, still present in local dialects, gastronomy and architecture. Tyrolean culture is particularly evident in local traditions such as Schützenfest, a festival where members of the secular community meet to compete in target shooting.
What to do in Alto Adige
Alto Adige is a popular tourist destination for many reasons. The region offers breathtaking landscapes ideal for hiking or cycling throughout the year. During winter, snow-covered mountains offer many opportunities for skiing. It is possible to visit several ski resorts, with state-of-the-art facilities and slopes for all skill levels. For those who prefer less demanding activities, there are also many thermal spas to relax and regenerate.
What to eat in Alto Adige
The cuisine of Alto Adige reflects its geographical location, with Italian and Austrian influences. The region is famous for its meat-based dishes, such as speck, a typical smoked ham, and pork knuckle, prepared with potatoes and sauerkraut. Soups are much loved dishes, especially apple strudel, a typical dessert. The region also produces some excellent wines, such as Lagrein and Gewürztraminer.
Conclusions
Alto Adige is a unique and welcoming province, merging Italian and Austrian traditions to create an interesting and diverse cultural mix. The region offers outdoor, thermal and sports activities throughout the year and delicious food. Visit Alto Adige to discover everything this beautiful province has to offer!
