Il Matrimonio di campagna in Alto Adige …

Here it is again—one of the most celebrated festivals of South Tyrol. In the province of Bolzano, specifically in Castelrotto, the annual event returns on January 19, 2020, as tradition dictates. It’s an occasion to revive the customs, costumes and flavors of weddings that, until the mid-20th century, marked life on the Seiser Alm (Alpe di Siusi).

Since the warmer months were devoted to working the fields and high pastures, weddings were essentially a winter affair. Over time a series of rituals came to surround the nuptial liturgy, adding layers of meaning. Between the sacred and the profane, here’s what happens…

The groom-to-be presented his bride with twelve painted eggs—symbolizing the twelve months remaining until the big day. The bride-to-be, meanwhile, brought her dowry: bed linens, pots and household utensils formed the substantial—and nearly indispensable—trousseau. She was also expected to prove her domestic prowess immediately by hosting a lunch at her parents’ home.

…as the line of horse-drawn sleighs that carry the engaged couples and their guests. The parade sets off at 2 p.m. from the little church in Castelrotto, winds through the snow-covered fields of San Valentino and heads toward the town center. Everyone wears traditional Tracht—the Tyrolean ceremonial costume—but the bride stands out with her distinctive headdress in bright green.

Unmarried female guests must wear their hair piled atop their heads, in contrast to married women, who tie theirs at the nape. Older women don the turmkappe, a tall cone-shaped hat that has become a hallmark of local custom.

Obstacles and barriers line the entire route, symbolizing the challenges life may throw at the newlyweds. By ancient ritual, designated relatives must buy a goat along the way to the vow site, while village youths block the procession as it passes farmsteads and narrow lanes, until it reaches the Church of Saints Peter and Paul.

The celebration begins in the main square with songs and music woven into the local atmosphere, evoking both laughter and tears. Then comes the banquet, held in the cozy stube typical of the region. The lavish menu features fifteen courses.

Dishes inherited from South Tyrol’s culinary heritage include marinated chamois saddle, country-style pasta with wild game ragù, herb-seasoned brain cream, poppy-seed krapfen and a special sweet bread made just for the occasion. Even the wedding cake—known in dialect as Hoazetkuchl—is part of the cultural fabric of northern Italy.

The oldest recipes come to life again, thanks to the skill of native chefs, heralding a true feast of fine fare. Here, gastronomy takes center stage in honor of the couple and all who share in their joy.

In short, three hours of pure spectacle. Open to the public, the event invites everyone—whether deeply involved or simply curious—to engage with local tradition. And here’s the real treat: every spectator can sample specially prepared specialties in the area’s restaurants. Gourmets and the merely curious alike will leave more than satisfied.