Panoramic views on Bolzano and the surrounding peaks: Welcome to Auna di Sopra, called Oberinn
Auna di Sopra is one of the many villages on the Renon. Its name has evolved over time. Originally, it was called "Malgrei St. Leonhard". The German term "Ober" means "Upper", while "Inn" indicates a "path" and refers to the significant medieval pilgrimage route that crossed the high plateau.
This "Upper Path" led from Longomoso westward to Vanga Castle. Today, alongside Auna di Sopra, there's also Auna di Sotto (Unterinn) - both are popular holiday destinations on the sunny Renon plateau. Along Auna di Sopra's main street are the houses, the primary school, and the Church of St. Leonard. Built around 1200 AD, it was originally known as St. Leonard in the Forest.
The tower, with its Romanesque stylistic elements, probably dates back to this period. St. Leonard is a so-called chain church: A Saint Leonard's chain, made of iron votive offerings that were once reworked into chains, stretches around the church wall. Folklore has it that these chains ward off demons. Leonard of Noblac is venerated as the patron saint of those in chains and for farmers' concerns, such as livestock and weather. The oldest farm in the village is Mair in der Egg, once a gift from Otto III, Duke of Carinthia and Tyrol, to his wife Euphemia of Silesia-Liegnitz.
In the Middle Ages, the public court square was located in front of the farm. Today, Auna di Sopra attracts those seeking relaxation. The opportunities for outdoor activities are diverse, including archery, hiking on the Schelmsteig, horse riding or llama trekking. In midsummer, multi-day tours through the mountains with overnight stays in huts are even offered with the llamas.
