Bolzano: multilingual city between Talvera, Isarco and mountains
Bolzano is the capital of the autonomous province of the same name and stands at 265 meters above sea level, at the confluence of the Talvera and the Isarco. The position on the routes between the Adriatic, Bavaria and Grisons has long supported its commercial role and contributes to its Italian, German and Ladin identity.
History and identity
For centuries Bolzano belonged to the Austrian political and cultural sphere and was annexed to Italy after the First World War. In the twentieth century, strong industrialization produced rapid demographic growth and changed the linguistic composition of the city, where today mainly Italian and German speaking groups coexist, as well as a Ladin presence.
What to see
The historic core occupies the triangle between Talvera, Isarco and Monte Tondo. Three cable cars connect the city to Colle di Villa, Renon and San Genesio on the Salto plateau, overcoming significant differences in height. Looking east along the Isarco valley, the Catinaccio can be distinguished, with the Vajolet Towers, part of the Dolomites.
Understand the place
Organize the route in the center and the excursions at high altitude separately. Check times and status of the cable cars, weather conditions and access to the trails; temperatures can change significantly between the valley floor and the alpine areas.
Where to stay
A hotel near the center facilitates urban visits and access to the cable car stations. For a stay aimed at the plateaus or valleys, compare altitude, connections, parking and return times before booking.
Prepare the visit
Times, access conditions and transportation may change. Before the trip, check the official pages linked from the source, protect the heritage and leave the entrances to the homes free. Source in local language.