At the legendary Passo delle Erbe, the Dolomite pass high above Antermoia, witches are said to dance under the full moon to this day
Image gallery: Antermoia
The small village of Antermoia (Untermoi), the highest component locality of San Martino in Badia, lies at the foot of the distinctive northern faces of Mt. Sass de Putia. Between the houses and the Parish Church of Saint Anthony in the centre, there are several places to park, as Antermoia attracts mountain enthusiasts and hikers exploring the vast Puez-Odle Nature Park.
The most experienced among them climb the imposing Sasso Putia from the Passo delle Erbe. This mountain pass not only connects the Antermoia Valley with Luson in the Valle Isarco, but is also a mystical place, the subject of numerous legends and dark tales. The Witches' Dance at the Passo delle Erbe, which takes place every year on the alpine meadows during the July full moon, is an impressive spectacle. Large fires blaze and live music accompanies the witches as they dance.
The custom dates back to earlier times when they were blamed for misfortunes on the mountain, the loss of livestock and severe weather. In winter, you will find perfectly prepared cross-country ski tracks here, set against the backdrop of Mt. Sass de Putia. The longest, the Passo delle Erbe panoramic trail, stretches for 16 kilometres from the Russis Bridge to the Passo delle Erbe.
By the way, the water of Antermoia - formerly spelt "Undermoy" - is said to have healing properties. The spring water of the Bagni Valdander, whose name derives from Val d'Anter, literally the "valley of caves", is still used today for bathing and drinking cures.
