Les Viles

Les Viles, this is how the most ancient residential buildings on the slopes of the Val Badia and Alta Badia are called, which can still be admired today. The “Vila” is similar to the Raethian “tambra”, which defines the most ancient documented mountain hut. The Viles unite two different ways of living: the open and social way of the Romans and the rather closed attitude of living of the Raethians and Bavarians.

Originally every single family had two separated buildings: the “ciasa” comprised the residence, the cellar, the food storage and a workshop, the “majun” (stable) with the “tablé” (hay barn) was the second building. Paths, squares and fountains were used in common and this is also one of the most important characteristics of Les Viles. Many works used to be carried out in common.

In fact, an important social role was attached to the Viles. These special buildings can be admired for example in Longiarú. The “Roda dles Viles”, a beautiful circular walk, starts in the village centre of Longiarù and proceeds through woods and pastures until the traditional Viles (about 2 hours and 45 minutes).

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