Step by Step
The Kohlerer Mountain has always been a special place. Until the 1970s, the village of the same name, located above Bolzano, could only be reached by cable car. Perhaps it is due to its seclusion that so many legends and myths have arisen around Bolzano’s local mountain. The true essence of many of these stories is supported by mysterious finds from the past, as well as the varied history of this remarkable location.
The Kohlern Inn
Long before the Kohlern Inn attracted visitors from near and far, the hill was inhabited. While the Bolzano basin was an important transportation hub, it was largely characterized by extensive marshlands until the Middle Ages, making it scarcely habitable. It is no surprise, then, that the area's inhabitants moved to higher altitudes. As early as prehistoric times, settlements of Rhaetian tribes emerged on the hill, protected by powerful ramparts. The mysterious remnants of these past settlements still draw visitors today.
The Wonder View of the Ancient Romans
Kohlern offered its residents several advantages: sheltered from the whims of the river and floods, the settlers were also protected from others due to the elevated position and steep slopes. From this vantage point, the valley could be easily surveyed, allowing for early detection of approaching dangers. The famous "Wonder View" that Kohlern provides had, therefore, more than just aesthetic value for a long time. Some claim that on a clear day, one could see as far as Venice from the second lookout tower on Titschen, which was not rebuilt after World War II. However, Josef Schrott, the operator of the Kohlern Hotel, believes this is more likely a modern legend. Nevertheless, even if the view doesn’t reach Venice, it is certainly breathtaking. Expansive orchards and vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, framed by the gold and green of fertile fields and meadows.
A Kernel of Truth in Every Legend
The unknown has always fascinated humans and demands explanation. Thus, rumors, natural phenomena, and finds from long-forgotten times could quickly take on a mythical or religious interpretation. One example is the legend of the downfall of Old Rentsch. Many years ago, where the district of Rentsch now nestles at the foot of the Kohlerer Mountain, there was a rich and arrogant people. Their wealth from winemaking led to their downfall as they transgressed against God and nature. As punishment, their village was washed away by the river and buried beneath the surrounding mountains. Only the church tower's tip is said to be visible at the bottom of the town well. In reality, the area around Bolzano, especially the Kohlern Mountain, is rich in remnants of abandoned settlements. Here, where humans and powers have met for millennia—where Rhaetians, Romans, and Germans lived, and counts, abbots, and bishops fought for supremacy over the strategically important basin—a rich treasury of legends has developed over time.
A Special Place Today and Then
The name "Kohlern" comes from "coal." Unlike in the valley, where merchants and farmers lived, the coalmen inhabited this area. These hard-working individuals cut down trees to produce charcoal and wood tar. The name has survived, as their lives were tough, full of hardship, and not marked by longevity. Those too young to work would go into the woods to gather mushrooms, roots, and berries. Here, the legend of the giant Titsch begins. According to legend, he was a kind giant who lived on the Titschen Mountain above Kohlern. One day, particularly poor children got lost while berry-picking in the woods. The giant found them in their distress and, though they feared him, he took pity and led them safely out of the forest. As a farewell gift, he presented them with giant fruits and berries, ensuring they would never go hungry again. While it cannot be proven that agriculture on the Kohlerer Mountain originated this way, it is a fact that where the hamlets of Bauern- and Herrenkohlern now stand, the first farms were established in the High Middle Ages.
Today’s Kohlern and Its Inn of the Same Name
Back then, no one could have imagined that a whimsical cable car would one day transport guests to an elegant hotel in Kohlern. With its beautiful, bright rooms and exquisite dishes, it must seem to the old coalmen like a magical castle. In a way, it truly is, as today, just like in the times of Empress Sisi, vacationers ride the cable car to the Kohlern Inn to enjoy the seclusion, tranquility, and enchanting view. And still, many claim to have seen Venice from the lookout tower. But that’s another story…