Klausner Gassladvent

An Advent in the medieval alleys of Chiusa

The Klausner Gassladvent — the Chiusa Christmas Market — is among the most characteristic holiday events in South Tyrol. It is held in the heart of the historic center of Chiusa/Klausen, one of Italy's most beautiful villages in the Isarco Valley, in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano (Trentino-Alto Adige). The name comes from the 'Gassen', the medieval alleys around which the market winds: wooden stalls and decorated cellars line the narrow streets and small squares of the village, dominated by the imposing Sabiona Monastery.

The atmosphere: candles, lights, and contemplation

Unlike large city markets, the Gassladvent focuses on an intimate and contemplative atmosphere. Thousands of candle flames illuminate the ancient facades of the village, while the stalls offer authentic handicrafts: turned wooden bowls, finely carved nativity figurines, felt slippers, herbal products, and local gastronomic specialties. There is no shortage of mulled wine, Krapfen, and traditional South Tyrolean sweets.

Living nativity, night watchman, and Christmas angel

The most beloved moment is the lighting of the candles: every Sunday, the night watchman walks through the village and hand-lights hundreds of candles, drawing a path of light along the alleys and transforming Chiusa into a romantic painting. Other highlights include the living nativity scene with its various stations, the choirs and brass bands that accompany the days, and the Christmas angel who 'flies' from the Castle of Branzoll (Castel Branzoll) to bring greetings in the church square. The calendar also includes the Krampus run, the Saint Nicholas parade, demonstrations of ancient crafts, and workshops and readings designed for children.

Where it takes place

The market enlivens various points of the historic center, including the Church Square, Piazza Tinne, and the Market Square, as well as a 'Kreativkeller' dedicated to workshops for the little ones. The village is pedestrian-only and easily reachable on foot from the town parking lots and the Chiusa train station, along the Brenner line.

When

The Gassladvent is open on Advent weekends, from Friday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with some special weekday opening days. The initiative is organized by the Tourist Cooperative of Chiusa, Barbiano, Velturno, and Villandro.