St. Magdalene Church Santa Maddalena
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St. Magdalene Church Santa Maddalena

4.6
·38 reviews·Bolzano, Italy

An iconic church in Val di Funes, Italy, offering a breathtaking panorama of the Odle mountains and surrounding vineyards.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, golden light

CrowdLow
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St. Magdalene Church Santa Maddalena

St. Magdalene Church Santa Maddalena

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, golden light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic church in Val di Funes, Italy, offering a breathtaking panorama of the Odle mountains and surrounding vineyards.

4.6
(38 reviews)

"The Church of Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes offers an unforgettable view, a true highlight for any visitor."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Capture the Classic Shot

Position yourself in front of the church for the iconic view with the Odle mountains. Early morning or late afternoon light is best.

🚗 Limited Parking Alert

Parking is scarce near the church. Be prepared to walk or find alternative transport.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic View

The Iconic View

In front of the church

The postcard-perfect panorama of the Church of Santa Maddalena with the majestic Odle mountains as a backdrop.

Odle Mountains

Odle Mountains

Behind the church

These dramatic peaks provide a breathtaking, awe-inspiring natural setting for the charming church.

Vineyard Surroundings

Vineyard Surroundings

Around the church

Wander through picturesque vineyards, especially if visiting the Bolzano location, and enjoy local wines.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

The Church of Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes is a popular spot, especially for its iconic view with the Odle mountains. To capture that perfect shot without the crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Check opening hours for the church interior, as they can be limited.

Getting There & Parking

Accessing the church can be tricky. While some mention it's east of Bolzano, the specific location in Val di Funes is key. Parking is very limited, so consider walking from nearby areas or using public transport if available. The scenic route through vineyards is part of the charm.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Fewer crowds, golden light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Beautiful light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Friday & Saturday afternoons
Why
Church interior access
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Somewhere between Santa Maddalena and the sky. Odle mountains in the back. Main character energy in the front. 😂 #ItalyMoments #DolomitiMagic
@tavii.p
32K likes • 92.6K views

🎯 Capture the Classic Shot

Position yourself in front of the church for the iconic view with the Odle mountains. Early morning or late afternoon light is best. TikTok+1

🚗 Limited Parking Alert

Parking is scarce near the church. Be prepared to walk or find alternative transport. Reddit

The Church of Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes is definitely in my top 3 views ever ❤️📸 What's yours? 🫵 #valdifunes #valdifunesdolomitiitaly #dolomitiemotions #dolomiti #mountainsview
@riccardovetere
5.2K likes • 124.3K views
📍Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, Roma A tiny church a few steps from the Pantheon, named after Mary Magdalene and built on a 14th-chapel: Santa Maria Maddalena, the regional church for expatriates from the Abruzzo region, was entrusted in 1586 to St. Camillus de Lellis as the seat for the order he established. In the first half of the 16th century, the Camillians decided to expand the square by ...
moments_of.happiness
391 likes • 10.3K views

⛪ Check Interior Hours

The church interior may have limited opening times, often only on specific days like Fridays and Saturdays. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Walks

Enjoy strolls through the surrounding vineyards, especially if visiting the Bolzano area. Reddit

SUGAR CHURCH ,the hidden gem⛪️😍!! The church of Santa Maria Maddalena, nestled in the Roman neighborhood of Sant’Eustachio, is famous for its curved facade. Dedicated to St. Mary Magdalene, the church is one of the few examples of Baroque-Rococo art in Rome.✨ The Romans nicknamed it the “sugar church” because they said it looked like decorations on a cake!! . Follow @gayathri_madathil 🫶🏻 . [stud...
gayathri_madathil
424 likes • 12.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Capture the Classic Shot

Position yourself in front of the church for the iconic view with the Odle mountains. Early morning or late afternoon light is best. TikTok+1

🚗 Limited Parking Alert

Parking is scarce near the church. Be prepared to walk or find alternative transport. Reddit

⛪ Check Interior Hours

The church interior may have limited opening times, often only on specific days like Fridays and Saturdays. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Walks

Enjoy strolls through the surrounding vineyards, especially if visiting the Bolzano area. Reddit

🍷 Taste Local Wine

The region is known for its Vernatsch wine, often called St. Magdalener. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(38 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking, iconic view of the Church of Santa Maddalena with the Odle mountains as its stunning backdrop, calling it a highlight of their trip. The scenic vineyard surroundings and the opportunity to taste local wines are also frequently mentioned positives. However, the significant challenge of very limited parking near the church is a recurring point of frustration for many.

"Though the church was closed, this place was my highlight to the trip to Bolzano ! Amazing view of the city from above from beautiful Vineyards !"

Krishna Mutha

"Panoramic viewpoint above Bolzano, unfortunately there is no parking."

Tiziana Magagnino

"I visited yesterday as part of the FAI initiative. Even though I've lived in Bolzano for decades, I'd never seen this little gem. The interior is completely frescoed with paintings from various schools dating from around 1300 to 1380. The church is nestled among vineyards in a truly scenic location, and we reached it from the S. Osvaldo promenade."

Pasquale Quercia

What People Like

Iconic mountain view
Picturesque vineyards
Serene atmosphere

What People Dislike

Very limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Church of Santa Maddalena is famously located in Val di Funes, South Tyrol, Italy, offering stunning views of the Odle mountains.TikTok+1 If you're referring to the Santa Maria Maddalena church in Rome, it's near the Pantheon.Instagram+2 For the Val di Funes location, driving is common, but parking is extremely limited.Reddit Public transport options might involve buses to the Val di Funes area, followed by a walk or local shuttle.

Parking at the Santa Maddalena Church in Val di Funes is very scarce.Reddit It's advisable to arrive early or consider parking in a nearby village and walking. The Rome location also has parking challenges due to its central area.

Reaching Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes by public transport typically involves taking a bus to the valley and then potentially a local bus or a significant walk to the church. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.

The most common way to reach Val di Funes is by car, offering flexibility to explore the region. Alternatively, you can take a train to Bolzano and then a bus towards Santa Maddalena or nearby villages. Reddit

Yes, the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena in Rome is located in the Sant'Eustachio neighborhood, a short walk from the Pantheon, making it relatively easy to find within the city center.Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, visiting the exterior and grounds of the Church of Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes is free. Access to the church interior might be restricted or have specific opening hours, often on Fridays and Saturdays.Reddit The Rome location is also typically free to enter.

The opening hours for the interior of the Church of Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes can be limited, with some sources indicating it's open on Fridays and Saturdays from 4 PM to 6 PM.Reddit It's best to verify locally or check for any seasonal changes.

There is usually no entrance fee to see the exterior of the Church of Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes. If the interior is open, it's typically free to enter, though donations are always appreciated.

While the exterior is always accessible, the interior of the Church of Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes has specific, often limited, opening hours.Reddit The Rome location generally follows standard church visiting hours.

Guided tours for the Church of Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes are not commonly advertised, but local tourist information centers might offer insights or walking tours of the area. For the Rome church, information on tours might be available through local religious or art history tour operators.

📸 📸 Photography

The best times for photography at Santa Maddalena are during the golden hours: early morning and late afternoon. This provides soft, flattering light and can help you avoid crowds for that iconic shot with the Odle mountains. TikTok+1

Generally, photography of the exterior is allowed. Inside the church, especially if it's a place of worship, it's respectful to check for any signage regarding photography, particularly flash photography.

The most photogenic spot is undoubtedly the view from the front of the church, looking out towards the Odle mountains.TikTok+1 The surrounding vineyards also offer beautiful photographic opportunities, especially during autumn.

Drone usage is subject to local regulations, which can be strict in protected natural areas and near villages. It's essential to research and comply with all drone laws before flying in the area.

A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive mountain views and the church. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the Odle peaks. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is the breathtaking view of the church with the Odle mountains.TikTok+1 You can also explore the surrounding vineyards,Reddit enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, and if the interior is open, admire its frescoes.Reddit

Yes, Santa Maddalena is perfect for a short visit, especially if you're driving through the Dolomites. The iconic viewpoint can be appreciated in under an hour, though you might want to linger longer to soak in the scenery or enjoy a wine tasting.

The atmosphere is serene and picturesque, offering a tranquil escape with stunning natural beauty. It's a place to appreciate the landscape and the charming architecture. TikTok

Facilities directly at the church are minimal. You might find cafes or restaurants in the nearby villages of Val di Funes or if you're visiting the Bolzano location, there are more options available.

In Val di Funes, it's renowned for its iconic landscape. The Santa Maria Maddalena in Rome is noted for its Baroque-Rococo architecture and frescoes by artists like Baciccio.Instagram

🍽️ 🍷 Food & Dining

While there might not be direct dining options right at the church, the villages in Val di Funes offer traditional South Tyrolean cuisine. Many visitors enjoy the local Vernatsch wine, also known as St. Magdalener.Reddit

In South Tyrol, expect hearty dishes like Speck (cured ham), Knödel (dumplings), Schlutzkrapfen (spinach and ricotta ravioli), and various apple-based desserts. The local wines, especially Vernatsch, are also a must-try.Reddit

Picnicking is generally allowed in scenic areas, but be sure to respect the environment and dispose of your trash properly. Enjoying local produce and wine amidst the vineyards can be a delightful experience.

Yes, being in central Rome near the Pantheon, there are numerous trattorias, pizzerias, and cafes surrounding the Santa Maria Maddalena church, offering a wide range of Italian culinary experiences.Instagram+1

Absolutely! The area around Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes is a renowned wine-growing region, particularly for St. Magdalener wine. Many wineries offer tastings, often by appointment.Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

For families visiting the Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes, the main draw is the stunning scenery and the open space for kids to explore (under supervision, of course!). The drive through the valley offers beautiful views, and the iconic church provides a great photo opportunity. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities directly at the church are limited. Consider a short, easy walk through the vineyards if your children enjoy nature. The limited parking can be a challenge with a car full of gear, so plan accordingly. For families visiting the Santa Maria Maddalena in Rome, its central location makes it easy to combine with other kid-friendly attractions like the Pantheon or Piazza Navona. The ornate interior might capture the imagination of older children interested in art and history.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes to be a dream destination. The iconic view of the church with the Odle mountains is a bucket-list shot.TikTok+1 Aim for the golden hours – sunrise or sunset – for the most dramatic light. Be prepared for limited parking and potentially crowds, especially during peak times. A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the grandeur of the landscape, while a telephoto can isolate the mountain peaks. For those interested in architectural photography, the Santa Maria Maddalena in Rome offers a completely different, yet equally rewarding, subject with its elaborate Baroque facade and interior frescoes.Instagram+1

🍷 Wine Lovers

The region around Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes is a celebrated wine-growing area, particularly known for its Vernatsch (Schiava) grape, producing the local St. Magdalener wine.Reddit Many visitors enjoy exploring the vineyards and visiting local wineries for tastings. The scenic drive through the wine-producing hills is an experience in itself. While there aren't restaurants directly at the church, you can find excellent local eateries in nearby villages that pair perfectly with the regional wines. The Rome location, while not a wine region, is surrounded by countless restaurants and bars where you can sample Italian wines.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic View: Capturing Santa Maddalena

The image of the Church of Santa Maddalena, with its simple steeple set against the dramatic backdrop of the Odle (Geisler) peaks, is one of the most recognizable in the Dolomites.TikTok+1 This view is particularly stunning during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the light bathes the mountains in warm hues. Photographers often recommend arriving early to secure a good vantage point and avoid the midday crowds. The church itself, while modest, is perfectly framed by the natural grandeur of the surrounding landscape, making it a photographer's dream.

Many visitors find that the best spot for this iconic shot is directly in front of the church. The composition is so classic that it's hard to get wrong, but experimenting with different angles and focal lengths can add a personal touch to your photos. Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass both the church and the vastness of the mountains, or a telephoto lens to compress the scene and emphasize the scale of the peaks. Remember to be respectful of the church and any ongoing services if you visit the interior.

Beyond the main viewpoint, the surrounding area offers numerous opportunities for stunning photography. The winding roads, the lush green meadows in summer, the vibrant autumn foliage, and the snow-capped peaks in winter all contribute to the area's visual appeal. Even a simple walk through the vineyards can yield beautiful shots, especially with the mountains always present in the background.Reddit

Navigating Val di Funes: Access and Parking

Reaching the Church of Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes requires some planning, as access can be a bit challenging. While the area is picturesque, it's not as easily accessible as some major tourist hubs. The most common way to get there is by car, which allows for flexibility in exploring the valley. However, be warned that parking directly at the church is extremely limited.Reddit This scarcity means that arriving early in the day, especially during peak season, is highly recommended. If you can't find a spot, you may need to park in a nearby village and walk or use local transport.

For those relying on public transport, the journey typically involves taking a train to Bolzano and then catching a bus that serves the Val di Funes region. From the bus stop, you might need to walk a considerable distance or find a local shuttle service to reach the church itself. It's crucial to check the latest bus schedules and routes, as they can vary seasonally. The walk itself, however, can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to soak in the alpine scenery at a more leisurely pace.

An alternative perspective comes from the Santa Maria Maddalena church in Rome, which is situated in a bustling city center. Here, the challenge is not limited parking in a natural setting, but rather navigating Rome's traffic and finding available parking in a dense urban environment. Public transport, including buses and metro, is the most efficient way to reach this church, which is conveniently located near other major attractions like the Pantheon.Instagram+1

The Charm of Santa Maria Maddalena in Rome

While the Val di Funes location is famed for its natural beauty, the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena in Rome offers a different kind of charm – one of Baroque artistry and urban elegance.Instagram+4 Located near the Pantheon, this church is a hidden gem, often nicknamed the 'sugar church' due to its ornate, almost confection-like facade.Instagram It stands as a significant example of Baroque-Rococo architecture in the heart of the Eternal City.

Inside, visitors can marvel at the works of renowned artists. The ceiling is adorned with frescoes by Baciccio, and the stucco work by Giuseppe Sardi is particularly noteworthy. The altar of St. Camillus, created by Pierre Le Gros, is another highlight. The church also boasts a magnificent 18th-century organ, adding to its grandeur and making it a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.Instagram Its dedication to St. Mary Magdalene and its history as the regional church for Abruzzo expatriates add layers of cultural significance.

Unlike its Dolomite namesake, the Santa Maria Maddalena in Rome is easily accessible via Rome's extensive public transportation network. Its central location means it can be easily incorporated into a day of sightseeing, offering a moment of artistic contemplation amidst the vibrant energy of the city. The contrast between the serene, mountainous setting of Val di Funes and the artistic splendor of Rome's Santa Maddalena highlights the diverse appeal of places sharing the same name.

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