Vipiteno, the “Fuggerstadt” - a charming medieval town in South Tyrol with captivating sights and rich history
Vipiteno, the Fugger town, is a bustling commercial hub today. The municipality stretches from the medieval town centre to the surrounding villages of Ceves, Tunes, and Novale. Its location at crucial crossings like the Brennero Pass, Pennes Pass, and Giovo Pass plays a vital role in its significance.
Famous for its winding alleys and the "Stodtplatzl", Vipiteno invites you to a relaxing stay between town and mountain. Alongside four other historically significant South Tyrolean towns - Castelrotto, Glorenza, Egna, and Chiusa - Vipiteno belongs to "I borghi più belli d'Italia", the most beautiful villages in Italy, and is renowned for its Tower of the Twelve.
Especially the old town, with its arcaded houses and vibrant facades, exudes a medieval charm. The then-flourishing mining industry attracted numerous merchants, including the wealthy Fugger family from Augsburg. They owned the mine shafts, brought prosperity to the town, and bestowed upon it the name Fugger town, which it retains to this day.
Traces of the Roman era are also frequently encountered. For instance, a Roman altar stone can be found in the inner courtyard of the town hall, and the word Vipitenum, the town's Italian name, traces back to the Roman general Drusus. While museums and shopping opportunities are concentrated within the town, along with events such as the longest dumpling table in South Tyrol, the natural landscape of the Upper Valle Isarco unfolds all around. The Rio di Giovo roars through the Stanghe Gorge, Europe's only marble gorge, at the entrance to the Racines Valley.
Above Vipiteno rises the Monte Cavallo, a popular hiking and skiing area with Italy's longest illuminated and snow-covered toboggan run. Where hiking trails crisscross the landscape and cows graze, a high ropes course and an Alpine Coaster provide an added thrill.
