The oldest settlement in the Alta Val di Non/Deutschnonsberg area, the picturesque village of Senale/Unsere liebe Frau im Walde, is also home to the oldest religious sanctuary in Tyrol. Even today, pilgrims still visit this famous pilgrimage site paying homage to the Holy Virgin, the local patron saint.
The Augustinian monastery and its adjoining hospice were first mentioned as far back as 1184. Wayfarers crossing the Gampenpass mountain pass were helped by the monks, who provided them with shelter during adverse weather conditions and guided them across the pass. The Romanesque monastery tower and church interior date from the 15th Century. The Baroque altars and Rococo style casket, as well as the votive image of the Madonna and Child are also of significant interest.
The Sanctuary of San Romedio
Below the 70m high limestone ridge near the village of Sanzeno in the Nonstal Valley, lies the Sanctuary of San Romedio where the saint’s tomb is located. The oldest church in the valley lies just above it. There are three other small churches, two chapels and seven Stations of the Cross, built in different periods. These are connected by 131 steps, which follow the contour of the rock. Set in the peaceful and tranquil natural landscape, over 200,000 pilgrims visit this shrine every year.