Bolzano, the ‘capital’ of South Tyrol
Bolzano, the capital of South Tyrol, is the gateway to the Dolomites, the meeting point between Central European and Mediterranean culture. A perfect combination that can be found in the historical and artistic beauties, in the Italian-German and Ladin multilingualism, in the traditions and in the cuisine.
Equipped with 30 kilometers of cycle paths, Bolzano is among the first cities in the Bel Paese for its exceptional environmental quality. A pleasant pre- and post-Alpine stop, the South Tyrolean city has a very small center, which is why the best way to get to know it is without a shadow of a doubt to tour it on foot.
Strolling through the streets of the historic center, with the urban panorama of the Catinaccio and the Vajolet Towers, walking along the streets of the ancient professions is a truly unforgettable experience. The arcades are also an undisputed symbol.
The living room of Bolzano is Piazza Walther, dotted with numerous small bars with outdoor tables. To the south of the historic center, there are two important symbols of the city, the Cathedral and its bell tower.
While walking around the city, a visit to the Civic Museum and the Museion, the museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, is a must. The Archaeological Museum is also not to be missed, famous because it houses Oetzi, the famous mummy from Bolzano from the Copper Age.
In Bozen, nature is painted with the colors of the orchards, the broadleaf and larch forests and the blue of the lakes. In the city countryside, Alpine flora and fauna coexist in perfect harmony with both the animal and plant worlds of the Mediterranean type.
On the other hand, there are many unmissable attractions in the city, which always offers a quality holiday to tourists and many events not to be missed. Among the latter, the very famous and acclaimed Christmas markets of Bolzano are among the most beautiful and important not only in Italy but in all of Europe.
What to eat between a visit to a museum or a walk with your nose in the air? Definitely worth tasting are the Knödel, large dumplings made with meat and vegetables, served in broth or with butter. Also delicious are the strangolapreti, the panada and the tonco de pontesèl. Also unmissable are the cured meats, cheeses and desserts, among the latter the apple strudel, the Kaiserschmarren and the apple pies. But the culinary tradition of Bolzano is definitely worth trying in its entirety!
