Lake Resia

In the municipal territory of Curon Venosta, at 1498 meters above sea level, lies the artificial Lake Resia, which, with its six kilometers in length, is one of the largest in the region. Beyond the beauty of the landscapes and the nature surrounding its shores, the lake offers a unique sight, with the ancient bell tower rising from its waters. The bell tower has become the symbol of the valley and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Anyone seeing the bell tower for the first time, with the breathtaking view of the Ortles in the background, might not realize the painful history it represents.

The church of Old Curon, built in the 14th century, was completely submerged by the artificial reservoir constructed by the fascist government in the 1920s. After the war, the industrial giant Montecatini decided to fully implement the old project initiated by the fascist government and further raise the water level to a depth of 22 meters. This decision forced part of the local population to abandon their homes “in the name of strengthening the national industry.” Most residents were forcibly removed, and during the summer of 1950, the government destroyed over 160 private homes, while the entire center of Curon and part of the village of Resia were submerged. Despite the pain of the residents, who were asked to relocate to temporary accommodations, the State continued with the project, creating what is now one of the most picturesque lakes in the world, to be viewed in reverent silence from one of its shores.