Sealamorkt (All Souls' Market)

The Sealamorkt of Glorenza: A Centuries-Old Market

The Sealamorkt—known in Italian as the Mercato delle Anime and in German as the Allerseelenmarkt—is one of the most distinctive events in South Tyrol. It is held every year on November 2nd, All Souls' Day, in Glorenza (Glurns), located in the heart of the Vinschgau Valley in the province of Bolzano. Here, on the Day of the Souls, the commemoration is far from melancholic; instead, it is a vibrant folk festival, a time for meeting and exchange that brings the smallest city in South Tyrol to life.

An Ancient Market Tradition

The origins of the event date back to the 14th century, when Glorenza was granted the right to hold a market. Thanks to its strategic location near the Swiss border, the small walled city became one of the most important commercial hubs of the Middle Ages. During this era, farmers would descend into the valley to sell surplus livestock, trade grain, fruit, and vegetables, and stock up for the winter. From that long history, today's Sealamorkt was born, now considered one of the largest and oldest fairs in the entire Alpine region.

What to Find at the Market

The selection is as diverse as the crowd that fills the alleys and arcades of Glorenza. Along the stalls, you will find typical South Tyrolean products—speck, cured meats, mountain cheeses, grappa, wine, sweets, and organic produce from valley farms—alongside winter clothing, leather goods, and local handicrafts. The traditional livestock market is a highlight, with sheep, goats, and other animals serving as a reminder of the ancient agricultural trade that forms the basis of this fair. The air is filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine, while traditional music provides the soundtrack to the day.

Glorenza, the Walled City

The setting for the Sealamorkt is a true gem: Glorenza is famous for its perfectly preserved medieval walls, arcades, and atmosphere of a bygone era. Known as the smallest city in South Tyrol, it fills with visitors and merchants from Italy, neighboring Switzerland, and Austria on this day, making it one of the most popular autumn events in the Vinschgau region. The market is organized by Glurns Marketing in collaboration with the Municipality of Glorenza.