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The Christmas season has begun in Trentino-Alto Adige. From around the end of Novemb
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er until December 23rd, Christmas markets spring up throughout the region. From Trento and Arco in Trentino to Bolzano, Bressanone and Merano in Alto Adige, the markets offer visitors a chance to shop for Christmas treasures, while strolling through the beautifully decorated streets and piazzas in each of the city centers. As expected, regional cuisine is well-represented, and visitors can try local dishes and specialties (my favorite is the Canederli!). Also, a visit would not be complete without a cup of Vin Brulé (or mulled wine), made with a local variety of red wine and spiced with a perfect combination of cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. The wine is heated in a large vat, a sign of its popularity, warming both the body and the soul as one drinks.
In Trento, the m
arket has been growing since its inception about 18 years ago, the growth spurred on by an ongoing competition with its counter-part in Bolzano. Each year brings more and more stalls and vendors and events to the city. The markets have become so much of a local tradition in the area that, I am told, the school children in the region have the impression that these markets have been going on for centuries!
Il mercatino di natale - TrentoMarkets in South TyrolMore photos