Glorenza is the smallest town in South Tyrol of
Italy. It never grew beyond its medieval walls, preserving its charming, medieval
atmosphere, and just for that it could be a good reason to make a stop there. This
historical gem, with fully intact city walls, three gate towers, arcades,
narrow alleyways and the noble townhouses, has hardly changed since the 16th
century.
Once it was an important trading center and today it hosts
two annual markets: St. Bartholomew market in August and the Sealamarkt (All Soul’s Day) in November. Sealamarkt has started as a traditional market where animals were traded. Today, it grew into a big festival, which offers regional specialties including food, beer, and clothing. In 2015, it is scheduled on November 2. More info at (only in German): http://www.glurns.eu/de/veranstaltungen/02-11-2015-sealamarkt/34-21.html
The story of the St. Bartholomew market goes back to
1291, when the Duke Meinhard II, Count of Tyrol, established the market in
defiance of the bishops of Chur. It was held on August 24th and
lasted for ten days. It rivaled the annual fair held around the Nativity of the
Virgin Mary (Sept.8) in the nearby market town of Mustair under the bishops of
Chur.
