St. Magdalene

St. Magdalene is a church in Villnöß, South Tyrol, that blends Gothic and Baroque features in its stone walls and tower design. The building sits on a mountainside and its exterior shows how different construction periods have shaped its form and character.

The church was founded in 1394, with only the original tower surviving from that era. Major reconstruction in the 15th century transformed it into the mixed architectural style that remains today.

The interior displays frescoes painted by local artist Johann M. Pescoller in 1928 across the choir vault, reflecting regional artistic traditions. These works remain central to how the space feels and speak to the deep connection between the building and its community.

The church sits away from vehicle access and requires a walk through the landscape to reach. Starting from the Putzen car park, allow about thirty minutes for the trek uphill to the church.

Every third year, pilgrims heading to Säben Monastery pass through here as part of a journey that dates back 500 years. This old pilgrimage route connects two religious sites and turns the church into a meaningful waypoint for travelers following this spiritual path.

Location: Villnöß

Inception: 14 century

Architectural style: baroque architecture, International Gothic

GPS coordinates: 46.64471,11.71931

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:46