This tradition goes back to 1796, when the Tyroleans had given up hope in the face of an imminent attack by Napoleon's mighty forces and made a pledge in return for the protection of the Sacred Heart. With the help of God and renewed courage, the Tyroleans were able to hold their ground in battle and Sacred Heart fires have been lit all over South Tyrol every year to commemorate the unexpected victory ever since. The fires are set in the form of hearts, crosses and eagles on the mountainsides.