Velturno
Introduction to the Autonomous Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol
The Autonomous Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol is the largest and northernmost province of the Trentino-Alto Adige region in Italy. The province has a population of approximately 533,175 people and covers an area of 7,400 sq. km. Together with the Autonomous Province of Trento and Austria, it forms the Tyrol-South Tyrol-Trentino Euroregion, a geographic area that shares numerous cultural and linguistic affinities. The province also belongs to the Triveneto macroarea that includes the Trentino, Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia regions.
Toponymy of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol
The Autonomous Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol has a double official name: "Provincia Autonoma di Bolzano - Alto Adige" in Italian and "Autonome Provinz Bozen - Südtirol" in German. The inhabitants of the province are generally known as Alto Adigeans, but other names such as "South Tyrol," "Südtirol" or "Tiroler Unterland" are also used. In addition, the province's minority language, Ladino, has a subsidiary form of name "Provinzia Autonoma de Balsan/Bulsan - Südtirol."
History of Toponymy in the Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol
During the period of Habsburg domination, the territory of today's province of Bolzano was known as "Mitteltirol" while the term "Südtirol" (South Tyrol) referred to the present Trentino or the entire southern part of Tyrol (Trentino-Alto Adige). Furthermore, a distinction was made between the Italian and German-speaking southern Tyrol. The use of the term "Südtirol" to refer only to the territory between Brenner and Salorno would be unjustified, according to some authors.
The Autonomous Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol and Its Culture
The province of Bolzano - South Tyrol presents a rich cultural variety. Its geographical location makes it an important hub between Italian and Austrian culture, with a significant presence of Ladino culture as well. This diversity is also reflected in language. The official language of Bolzano - South Tyrol is Italian, but many linguistic communities are represented by German, Ladino, and Italian. In addition, the province of Bolzano - South Tyrol is a center of excellence for craftsmanship, gastronomy, and tourism.
The Natural Beauty of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol
The Autonomous Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol is a land of natural beauty. The territory offers a variety of mountains, meadows, and lakes with numerous parks and nature reserves. Some examples include Val Pusteria, Lake Braies, and the Dolomites of the Sella Group. The province is also famous for its spas and natural wellness centers. In addition, the province of Bolzano - South Tyrol is an important center for winter sports, with numerous ski slopes and resorts.
In summary, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano - South Tyrol is a unique land that offers a rich cultural variety and unparalleled natural beauty. Its geographical location makes it an important hub between Italian and Austrian culture, with a significant presence of Ladino culture as well. Furthermore, the territory presents important artisanal, gastronomical, and cultural excellence and is an important tourist destination throughout the year.
