Right in the village of Stange/Stanghe, the heart of Ratschings/Racines, lies the Gilfenklamm Gorge – “probably the most impressive rocky gorge in South Tyrol,” as local historian Hanspaul Menara puts it. Since 1984, it has been designated a natural monument and placed under special protection.
In the Middle Ages, Stange/Stanghe was known for its customs station, the so-called “customs post,” and the old Jaufen road used to pass through here. But the real adventure was always found inside the gorge itself: for centuries, firewood was transported downstream via the rushing stream, using the method of log driving. It was dangerous and exhausting work – the narrow, wild gorge demanded everything from the men involved.
At the end of the 19th century, tourism began to emerge. Two men – innkeeper Karl Wiedner and district judge Franz Engl – took on the task of making the Gilfenklamm Gorge accessible to visitors. Starting in 1893, with courage and considerable effort, they built paths, bridges, and even a gallery carved into the rock, allowing people to explore the dramatic depths and waterfalls safely.
In 1898, the gorge was officially renamed “Kaiser Franz Josef Gorge” to mark the 50th anniversary of Emperor Franz Josef’s reign. With a parade, music, and a church blessing, the new name was meant to highlight the gorge’s significance. But despite all the celebrations, the rather cumbersome name never really caught on among the local population – and to this day, it remains known simply as the Gilfenklamm Gorge. During the war years, the trail infrastructure deteriorated, but in 1961, the entire path system was restored and reopened.
Today, just like over 100 years ago, the gorge continues to captivate hikers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.