San Leonardo in Passiria
S. Leonardo in Passiria/St.Leonhard in Passeier (639 m.), located at the confluence of the rivers Passiria and Rio di Valtina, 20 km from Merano, is the valley cultural centre. Do not miss the French cemetery and the birth house of the Tyrolean serviceman Andreas Hofer (1767 - 1810), including the valley museum (housed in a beautiful building) and an open air museum.
The Castle of Giove, home of the Lords of Val Passiria and built in the 13th century, rises above S. Leonardo in Passiria. Andreas Hofer became one of the most famous local historical characters, thanks to his memorable feats against Napoleon's army. The French put him to death on the 20th February 1810 in Mantua. This event is commemorated in South Tyrol, in the Burgraviato district in particular, with costume and band parades.
Leaving San Leonardo in Passiria and driving through the wild Val di Vannes, you reach the Passo di Monte Giovo/Jaufen Pass (m. 2094) that connects Merano, Vipiteno and the Valle Isarco. As you get to the pass, the view is beautiful: on one side there are the Passier Alps, on the opposite slope the Breonie Alps. The ski area Racines-Giovo is one of the most modern and better snow-covered ones in South Tyrol: thanks to its extraordinary atmosphere and extension, it is particularly suitable for families.
