Welcome to the market town of Mals, also known as the ‘Seven Towers’ due to the seven imposing towers that characterize the village. The municipality is located in South Tyrol in the Vinschgau district, more precisely in the Obervinschgau, has around 5,230 inhabitants and is one of the oldest settlements in South Tyrol.

It is not only holidaymakers and guests who enjoy the wonderful location of Mals; the Romans were already living in the area.
In the 17th century, Mals was elevated to the status of a market town by Claudia Medici, who also gave it two markets. These are the Georgimarkt (plant market) and the Gollimarkt (cattle market).

Embark on an unforgettable journey through time and discover the rich history behind these impressive buildings. Discover the hidden treasures that await you behind the old walls and towers.

The Benedictine church in Mals is an important cultural heritage that dates back to the 9th century and thus plays an important role in the history of Vinschgau. The Romanesque chapel was built as early as the Carolingian period, in the 9th century, and since then it has undergone numerous changes, making it a reflection of the different eras.

Over the centuries, the church has been extended and renovated, but its unique architectural beauty has always been preserved. Particularly noteworthy are the frescoes from the early Middle Ages, which were discovered at the beginning of the 20th century and bring the history of the region to life.

St. Benedict’s Church is not only a place of prayer, but also an important symbol of the cultural identity of the Venosta Valley. Its tranquil and venerable atmosphere invites visitors to experience the history and spirituality of the region. A visit to this historic landmark is an unforgettable experience that touches the soul and offers a deep insight into the rich history of Vinschgau.

The Marienberg monastery, majestically enthroned above the Venosta Valley, was founded in the 12th century by the brothers Eberhard and Ulrich II of Tarasp. Since its foundation, it has embodied a deep spiritual significance and a rich historical past. As a center of faith, culture and knowledge, it has played an important role in the development of the municipality of Malles/Mals and the entire Venosta Valley over the centuries.

With its 365 windows and doors, artistic frescoes and precious relics, the Marienberg monastery attracts visitors from all over the world. A walk through the historic walls of the monastery is like a journey through the centuries, offering deep insights into the history and spirituality of Val Venosta/Vinschgau.

Today, the Marienberg Monastery is not only a place of contemplation, but also a lively cultural center that hosts concerts, exhibitions and spiritual events. A visit to Marienberg Monastery is an unforgettable experience that touches body, mind and soul and offers a deep insight into the rich history and spirituality of Val Venosta/Vinschgau.

At the end of the 1930s, a series of anti-tank barriers and bunkers were built along the Reschen border to establish a line of defense against Hitler’s invasion. The bunkers served as shelters for the civilian population and military units during the war and were part of the Alpine Wall.

In November 1939, the Duce gave the order to begin extensive fortification work on the northern border. By the end of January 1940, a first defense system with 66 installations was already in place in South Tyrol. Construction work was stopped in October 1942 after repeated protests from the German Reich.

Today, some of the architectural relics from the interwar period are still preserved and embedded in the surrounding orchards and pastures, while others have been forgotten or demolished. Those interested in history should not miss out on a guided tour of the interesting bunker facilities, although this is only possible with a guide. The Etschquelle bunker/bunker no. 20 and the Plamort anti-tank barrier above the village of Reschen are particularly worth seeing. These tours guarantee an insight into a dark chapter of the 20th century.

The breaking of the glass is an old tradition that remains alive every year in Mals in Val Venosta. On the first Sunday of Lent, “Funkensonntag”, the locals gather to drive out the winter. There are three different places in Mals where this custom is celebrated. Depending on which part of the village you live in, people go to the respective “Scheibnschlogegg” to beat glowing wooden discs into the night and symbolically drive away the winter. Late in the evening, the “Hex” is lit to the loud cheers of the village community – a fascinating spectacle that unites the community and celebrates the transition to spring.

Sacred Heart of Jesus Day is the 2nd Friday after the Feast of Corpus Christi. In the evening of the following Sunday, Sacred Heart bonfires are lit on the surrounding mountains and hills throughout the country, depicting a cross, a heart or other shapes and lettering.

This old tradition is intended to give special expression to the bond with the homeland and is a sign of the Sacred Heart Vow of 1796. At that time, the provincial councils of Tyrol met in Bolzano to discuss the situation caused by the French troops under Napoleon. The Abbot of Stams, Sebastian Stöckl, appealed to them to entrust our province of South Tyrol to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and thus ask for divine assistance. Since then, the vow has been renewed annually and the fires lit on the mountain and slopes as a sign of devotion and gratitude.

In Mals you have a good view of the surrounding fires of the various neighboring villages such as Tartsch, Burgeis, Laatsch, Schleis Glurns and many more.