Experience geology and the history of our Planet up close and personal...

…IN THE DOLOMITES UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE

Part of the southern Alps and noteworthy for their unique geology, the Dolomites were added to the UNESCO list of sites worthy of preservation in 2009. The rocks consist of fossilised coral reefs from the Triassic period and were formed from sediment and corals.

The unique shape of this mountain massif’s rock faces are another special feature – the table mountains in the Sciliar and Sella massifs stand in stark contrast to the rugged Catinaccio and Tre Cime. Additions to this wonderful landscape are, of course, the numerous mountain lakes, such as Lago di Carezza, which consists of water from melted glaciers and underground tributaries from the Latemar massif.

There are a great deal of stories and legends concerning both the origin of the mountains and the Enrosadira – the natural phenomenon that causes the Dolomites to glow with a brilliant red or purple light every evening due to a reaction between calcium carbonate and magnesium in the mountain. The Enrosadira – also called Alpenglow in English – is particularly beautiful when enjoyed while sipping on a glass of local wine.

There are a great deal of local legends concerning this natural phenomenon shared by the people that live here, such as that of the dwarf King Laurin or the Lago di Carezza mermaid.

Today, the Dolomites are one of the best-known and most beautiful holiday destinations in the Alps and, of course, in South Tyrol as a whole.