Innichen
Innichen is a municipality and village located in South Tyrol, northern Italy, on the border with Austria. Historically a significant monastic center, it was founded in the late 8th century with the establishment of Innichen Abbey, which belonged to the Prince-Bishopric of Freising. Although the abbey was disestablished in the late 18th century, a Franciscan monastery was founded on the site in 1691 and remains active today. The area is also known for its natural beauty, including the Drei Zinnen–Tre Cime di Lavaredo park, and its ski resorts.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 769 by Duke Tassilo III of Bavaria.
- ›Innichen Abbey was a significant religious and administrative center for the Prince-Bishopric of Freising.
- ›Became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1919 following the Treaty of Saint-Germain.
- ›A Franciscan monastery was established in 1691 and continues its presence.
- ›The municipality is situated in the Puster Valley on the Drava River.
- ›Home to the natural park of Drei Zinnen–Tre Cime DI Lavaredo.
Drei Zinnen–Tre Cime Di Lavaredo Natural Park, Ski Resorts, Innichen Railway Station
San Candido, Sanciana
Tassilo Iii of Bavaria
Founding of Innichen Abbey, Disestablishment of Innichen Abbey, Acquisition of Estates By the County of Tyrol, Became Part of the Kingdom of Italy
About Innichen
Innichen is a municipality and village situated in South Tyrol, northern Italy, bordered by Austria. Its history is deeply intertwined with religious and administrative foundations, most notably the Innichen Abbey. This significant monastic institution was established in 769 by Duke Tassilo III of Bavaria and was historically linked to the Prince-Bishopric of Freising. The abbey itself ceased to operate in 1785, but its legacy endures through the continued presence of a Franciscan monastery, founded on the site in 1691.
Geographically, Innichen lies within the Puster Valley, positioned along the Drava River and at the Italian border with Austria. The region is renowned for its natural attractions, including the stunning Drei Zinnen–Tre Cime di Lavaredo natural park, and is a popular destination for winter sports due to its ski resorts. The linguistic makeup of Innichen reflects its border location, with a majority German-speaking population, alongside Italian and Ladin speakers.
Historically, the surrounding estates were acquired by the County of Tyrol following the Mediatisation of 1803. The Treaty of Saint-Germain in 1919 marked a significant political shift, integrating Innichen into the Kingdom of Italy. The village also serves as a transportation hub, with its railway station acting as a border crossing point between Italy and Austria. The historical importance of the Freising bishops' ownership of the area from 769 to 1803 is represented in the local coat-of-arms, which features a tower and a Moor's head, granted by King Albert I of Germany in 1303.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Innichen founded?
Innichen traces its origins to the late 8th century, with the founding of Innichen Abbey in 769 by Duke Tassilo III of Bavaria.
What is the historical significance of Innichen Abbey?
Innichen Abbey was founded by Duke Tassilo III of Bavaria and was part of the Prince-Bishopric of Freising. It served as a significant religious and administrative center for the region for centuries.
When did Innichen become part of Italy?
Innichen became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1919, as stipulated by the Treaty of Saint-Germain.
Is there still a monastery in Innichen?
Yes, Innichen is still the site of a Franciscan monastery, which was founded in 1691 and remains active today.
What are the main natural attractions in Innichen?
Innichen is located in the Puster Valley and is known for its ski resorts. It also includes the natural park of Drei Zinnen–Tre Cime di Lavaredo, a significant natural landmark.
Related Monasteries
Innichen Abbey
Innichen Abbey, originally a Benedictine monastery founded in the 8th century in Innichen, South Tyrol, is now a former abbey. Its collegiate church, dedicated to Saint Candidus and largely rebuilt in Romanesque style during the 12th and 13th centuries, is renowned as the most significant Romanesque structure in Tyrol and the Eastern Alps. The church features a notable 13th-century fresco cycle depicting the History of Creation within its dome and a 13th-century sculpture of the patron saints.
Exminster Monastery
Exminster is an ancient English village with roots as a Saxon minster or religious community founded in the 8th century. It later became a significant seat for the Courtenay family, Earls of Devon, and was the birthplace of Archbishop William Courtenay. The village retains historical landmarks, including the 14th-century St. Martin of Tours parish church and the former Devon County Asylum, now redeveloped into apartments.
Beverley Minster
Beverley Minster, officially the Parish Church of Saint John and Saint Martin, is a magnificent Gothic masterpiece and one of the largest parish churches in the UK, exceeding the size of many English cathedrals. Originally founded as a monastery by Saint John of Beverley around 700 AD, it evolved into a collegiate church before its reduction to parish church status during the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Despite losing some major sections, it has been extensively rebuilt and restored over centuries, notably after a fire in 1188 and significant structural challenges in the early 18th century.