Have you ever been to San Giacomo?

The oldest church in Val Gardena is located near the village of the same name, just above Ortisei, and is only accessible on foot. It can be reached starting from the parish church in Ortisei and following the signs for ‘San Giacomo’. From there, continue along the ‘Col de Flam’ promenade until you come to a fork in the path to the left. Following this walk, you first climb up to the Col de Flam crucifix and then continue along a path through the forest until you reach the charming little church at an altitude of 1,566 metres above sea level.

The picturesque and charming St. Jacob’s Church stands along the ancient high mountain path called ‘Troi Paian’, which once connected Venice to the Eisack Valley via the Dolomite passes and through the Gardena Valley. It is not possible to determine the exact date of its construction. Some historians agree in placing its origin around 1181. According to tradition, the Counts of Stättenecke are believed to have built the church, although their presence is only documented from the second half of the 13th century.