Five towers dominate the rooftops of Malles, which is also renowned for its markets: St. George’s Market and St. Gall’s Market
Image gallery: Malles village
Medieval frescoes, defiant towers, high mountains, and lively markets - this is probably the best way to describe Malles village (Mals Markt), one of the oldest settlements in South Tyrol and the main village of the municipality of Malles. The houses in the cobbled village centre are adorned with paintings, appearing at times stately, at times rustic. Among them, you'll find shops, cafés, a patisserie, the Institute for Music Education, the Civil Protection Centre, and various markets.
Besides the farmers' market, two traditional markets in particular liven up the alleyways of Malles: St. George's Market in spring and the Gollimarkt in October, where you can try a flavourful bread of the Val Venosta. Permission for these markets was granted by the sovereign princess Claudia de' Medici back in the 17th century. Even from the Val Venosta road, which leads uphill to the Malles Heath and Lake Resia, or downhill towards Merano, the village stands out with its towers.
Malles was once known as "the seven-towered village" - today, five of these towers still soar. They are the towers of St. Benedict, St. Martin, St. John, and the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, as well as the keep of Frölich Castle. You should particularly plan a visit to the Church of St. Benedict during a trip to Upper Val Venosta. It dates back to the 8th century and is exceptionally well preserved, making it one of the oldest churches in Europe whose basic structure has remained intact to this day. Carolingian frescoes from the 9th century adorn its interiors.
Around Malles, nature reveals its diverse side. Above the village, the Malles Heath extends - the largest alluvial fan in the Eastern Alps. It was once considered the granary of Tyrol. "Waale", the historic irrigation channels, still criss-cross the landscape today and invite you to enjoy walks along their paths. On one side of the valley, the 2,317-metre-high Piz Lun rises above the village. On the other side, the Watles adventure mountain awaits, with the Watles Adventure Lake and a skiing area. Relaxing moments are promised by the SportWell Malles indoor swimming pool.
