Pietralba Christmas Market (Christkindlmarkt Maria Weißenstein)

A Christmas market in the heart of the Dolomites

The Pietralba Christmas Market, known in German as Christkindlmarkt Maria Weißenstein, is one of the most charming Advent events in the Val d'Ega (Eggental). It is held at the Madonna di Pietralba Sanctuary, an important pilgrimage site located at an altitude of 1,520 metres on the Regglberg plateau, in the municipality of Nova Ponente/Deutschnofen, in the province of Bolzano/Bozen, Trentino-South Tyrol.

Atmosphere and setting

Unlike large city markets, the Pietralba market captivates visitors with its intimate scale and mountain setting. Within the centuries-old walls of the sanctuary, which dates back to 1553, wooden stalls come to life on weekends and holidays. The crisp, clear air of the Dolomites mingles with the aroma of hot mulled wine, traditional pastries, and South Tyrolean culinary specialties.

What to expect

• Wooden stalls featuring local handicrafts and handmade gifts
• Traditional products and local gastronomic delicacies
• Hot mulled wine, Christmas sweets, and South Tyrolean cuisine
• Christmas music and family-friendly activities

The Maria Weißenstein Sanctuary

The Madonna di Pietralba sanctuary is one of the most cherished places of worship for the people of South Tyrol. A destination for pilgrims for centuries, it offers a quiet, spiritual setting during the Advent season, making this market a unique experience compared to typical urban Christmas markets. Its panoramic position, nestled in the forests of the Regglberg, also invites visitors to take a walk through the winter landscape.

A South Tyrolean tradition

The market is part of the rich tradition of South Tyrolean Christmas markets, among the most famous in Italy. The event is organised by Val d'Ega Tourism and provides an opportunity to discover the hospitality and Christmas traditions of this mountain corner between Nova Ponente and the Eggental basin.