South Tyrol, Valleys, Rivers, Lakes, the Bell, and Reinhold Messner.

In the north of Italy, the province of Bolzano borders Austria to the north and the east (Tyrol and Salzburg). The province covers 7398.38 square kilometres, with a population of 535.829 inhabitants.

The territory of South Tyrol with its numerous valleys, passes, rivers and lakes, has a special natural charm; tranquillity and incomparable cleanliness. The main language is German, always spoken with pride.

Each village has its own time, often slow and peaceful, certainly, completely opposed to the polluted frenzy of the big cities. Everywhere, the centre is the church. Many, small churches, all restored. Solemn and spiritual wooden crosses rise along the streets or in the flowery courtyards of the houses.

Solemn and spiritual wooden crosses rise along the streets or in the flowery courtyards of the houses.

Travellers are crowded on the paths. The shores of the lakes are full of people enjoying the coolness of the water and relaxing during walks.

At Plan de Corones - Kronplatz, every day at noon, the peace bell Concordia 2000 chimes uncontrollably. It is majestic: 18.1 tons, a height of 3.11 meters, and a clapper of 500 kilograms. Its melody fills the valley with harmony, testifying to the quiet of the mountains.

It was erected in 2003. Designed by the artist Paul dë Doss-Moroder, it symbolizes peace. It is dedicated to St. Bernard, the protector saint of mountaineers and skiers.

At the summit of Plan de Corones – Kronplatz, there is the Messner Mountain Museum. The museum exhibits Reinhold Messner's life and philosophy. A life of fatigue, joy, pain and climbing the highest mountains.

Author Roberto Matteucci

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Credit photo: popcinema.org

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