Overview

The iconic bell tower emerging from Lake Reschen

One of the most iconic images of Trentino-South Tyrol is that of the bell tower emerging from Lake Reschen. It is among the highlights of Curon Venosta, a small municipality in the autonomous province of Bolzano, located at an altitude of 1,520 metres on the banks of the large artificial lake created in the 1950s to produce hydroelectric power.

The bell tower is the only part still visible of the old village of Curon, which was submerged by the waters of the lake and rebuilt on the eastern side of the valley. For over 70 years, the bell tower of the old church of Saint Catherine of Alexandria has peeped out of the water. In winter, when the lake freezes over, you can venture out to it on foot.

Curon Venosta also has plenty more to offer. A few kilometres from the centre, after a pleasant walk through the woods, is the source of the Adige River, while a 20-minute drive away is Glorenza, among Italy’s most beautiful villages. Nearby stands the imposing Castel Coira, among the most impressive castles in Trentino-South Tyrol. Don’t miss the Abbey of Monte Maria, the large Benedictine monastery on the outskirts of Burgusio, 1,335 metres above sea level.