&noscript=1 /> Latzfonser Kreuz peak in Eisacktal-South Tyrol Latzfonser Kreuz peak in Eisacktal-South Tyrol
 
Latzfonser Kreuz: the highest-lying place of pilgrimage in Europe
Latzfonser Kreuz: the highest-lying place of pilgrimage in Europe

Day trip destination

Latzfonser Kreuz

Latzfonser Kreuz: the highest-lying place of pilgrimage in Europe

'Latzfonser Kreuz' church of pilgrimage is situated in the eastern Sarntal Alps. At 2296 metres above sea level, this contemplative spot is the highest-lying place of pilgrimage in Europe.

Latzfonser Kreuz mountain peak lies at the heart of South Tyrol in the eastern Sarntal Alps south of Kassianspitze peak. The path to the high-altitude church was used by pilgrims hundreds of years ago, making it the oldest pilgrimage trail in South Tyrol. Latzfonser Kreuz - also known as 'Holy Cross on Ritzlar' - is still a very popular hiking and pilgrimage site today, not only to thanks to its magical aura, but also because of the number of hiking paths leading off from it. On reaching Latzfonser Kreuz, pilgrim hikers are treated to a breathtaking view of the Puez Geislergruppe, Langkofel and Plattkofel, Grohmannspitze, Rosengarten and Kesselkogel mountains. 

To the church itself

It's not only the pilgrim trail that has a lot of years under its belt, but Latzfonser Kreuz peak itself. The history surrounding this magical place dates back to 1700, when a cross was erected on the spot where the church now stands. The interesting thing about this cross is that it depicts a black Jesus and was taken out of the crypt at Latzfons. It was a popular pilgrimage destination even in those days. When, some years later, sufficient donations had been collected from pilgrims, a small neo-gothic chapel was built over the aforementioned crucifx, which calls the faithful to mass every Sunday. The refuge located above the church was built later and nowadays provides accommodation and refreshment for pilgrims.

Latzfonser Kreuz: the highest-lying place of pilgrimage in Europe

Hiking like in bygone days

The hike is of easy to medium difficulty. You reach your destination in 1 hour and 30 minutes and cover a distance of 3.7 km and an altitude difference of 430 metres. Kaseregg is a popular starting point for the walk. Follow path number 15 for around 1 km until you get to a crossroads. Then take the right-hand turning and follow the 15B path up to the so-called 'Stange'. Finally, turn off left and follow path 15A, then taking path number 1 to get to Latzfonser Kreuz. 

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Latzfonser Kreuz

Further information

Contacts
Cross of Latzfons
39040 Latzfons
Operation Schedules
Jan
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Park
parking Kühhof - hiking time ca 2,5 h, 760 height difference
parking Kaseregg -  hiking time ca 2 h, 400 height difference
General description
The first rituals held at this site, where the little church has overlooked its wonderful views since 1743, probably date back to prehistoric times, although we cannot be sure of when exactly it was that people began to discover the unique aura of this place.

One thing is for sure: the road to the Latzfons Cross (2,311m), highest pilgrimage site in South Tyrol and erected on the south face of the Kassian Peak, is the oldest pilgrimage trail in South Tyrol.

The mountain refuge hut, close to the church at an elevation of 2,305m, has provided countless pilgrims and hikers with refuge and sanctuary over the years. Innumerable wonderful tales have been told about this sacred place, such as the legend of the “Black Christ” who, with a nod of his head, decided on the spot where the crucifix should be erected. Prayers sent up from here at the end of the pilgrimage, about an hour’s walk up a fairly steep road from the Klausen hut to the cross, afford protection to one and all, particularly from the wrath of the elements.

The view stretches over to the Langkofel, the Grohmann Peak, the Kesselkogel and the Rosengarten. It is not just the view that makes this place special though, but the atmosphere which pervades the site and can be felt instinctively by all those who come here.