BETWEEN MOUNTAINS AND HISTORY-
THE LADINIC HERITAGE
Where history meets the present: Ladin culture combines centuries-old traditions with a modern zest for life. At the Alpin Chalet Frenademetz, you can experience this special spirit – authentic, warm and deeply rooted in the Dolomites.
The Ladins
The Ladins are a minority group from the Dolomites region who maintain their own language and culture.
They are an ancient Alpine people whose roots date back to the time of Roman settlement. Their homeland is South Tyrol, Trentino and Veneto, spread around the Sella massif.
The Ladin language (Ladin or Dolomite German) is an independent Rhaeto-Romance language that developed from Vulgar Latin during the Roman conquest of the Alps and is influenced by Celtic and indigenous elements.
This language is still actively cultivated today. It is a central element of Ladin identity and is used in schools, the media and everyday life.
Les Viles
The traditional settlement form, known as ‘viles’, consists of small groups of farmsteads, mostly built of wood and stone, scattered across the alpine meadows and valleys. They reflect the centuries-old way of life, in which agriculture, livestock breeding and crafts were closely linked to nature. The architecture, old mills, chapels and customs tell of the adaptation to the harsh mountain conditions and the communal life of the villagers.
Traditions
Festivals, music, dance and Ladin cuisine are still vibrant expressions of culture today. Traditional dishes, craftsmanship and seasonal celebrations such as harvest festivals and cattle drives provide insights into the lives of our ancestors and are proudly passed on to the next generation.
The Ladins combine tradition with modernity: museums, cultural associations and initiatives to preserve the language and customs ensure that this unique cultural heritage remains alive today. Visitors to the valleys of the Dolomites can not only experience the impressive natural surroundings, but also immerse themselves in the history and identity of one of the most fascinating peoples in the Alps.
