The tradition of wood carving in South Tyrol is very old and was done by the poor people of the valley. They were carving first toys for their children and later on also sacral figures and objects. With this kind of work they tried to fill in the long, cold winter nights and the objects became always more elaborated. During the summer months the works were sold to the passing merchants. These could be an angel or the figure of Jesus.
Today they carve often family coats of arms or Christmas ornaments. The works are well known and real masterpieces. Many of this woodcarvings are exposed to the public and are for being sold. The eldest models are exposed in the museum. This way one can see the old traditions of handicraft in the Val Gardena. Many shops sell woodcrafts and sculptures, the manufactures expose and sell them. In the villages one can find wooden toys, souvenirs, Christmas ornaments and wooden dolls. The choice is great and everyone can find ‘his’ perfect piece. Often one can observe the carvers at work and see how a piece of wood become an amazing figure, a sculpture.
