THE HISTORY OF CORTINA
The Queen of the Dolomites

History, Culture and Traditions

Cortina and Its History
Between Legends and Traditions

The history of Cortina can be discovered by looking at its “crode” — the dramatic profiles of the Dolomites — and the larch trees reflected in alpine lakes throughout the changing seasons.

Cortina’s history reveals itself along the trails once walked by Alpine Guides, and through the “corte”, the small shortcuts crossing meadows and connecting the streets of the town center.

Its story is written in place names, family names, everyday objects, and in the works of local craftsmanship and art. It lives in traditional architecture and clothing, in the large barns, mountain huts, and alpine pastures. It can be found in textiles — warm yet light, refined yet made to last.

The history of Cortina is also expressed through delicate touches of color that enrich every material: painted wooden furniture, wrought iron lamps, and glass details that elevate everyday life.

It can be sensed in the bold flavors of a land shaped by wild nature — in the aromas of rye and wild fennel, red beets and mountain herbs, butter, milk, and smoked meats. Cinnamon and calendula add further notes to this rich alpine tradition.

Cortina is a Queen with countless facets, shaped by its unique position at the crossroads between North and South, between the Alps, the Adriatic, and the Mediterranean.

Anpezo, Hayden, Curtina Ampitii, Cortina d’Ampezzo: the history of Cortina is a melting pot of cultures and identities that, over time, have blended into harmony — and beauty.

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The Traditions

Of Cortina d’Ampezzo

The Legends

Of Cortina d’Ampezzo

Mountain Huts and Grazing Lands

In Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cuisine

In Cortina d’Ampezzo

The Soul of Cortina

A soul that divides into two, giving life to two identities and two languages. Why?

Because even in the name Cortina d’Ampezzo, two worlds coexist: Anpezo in Ladin (Hayden in German, meaning “valley of hay”) and Cortina in Italian.

Even the search for the origins of the word Anpezo reflects this dual identity, where different linguistic roots meet and intertwine. One theory traces it back to the Latin amplitium, meaning “wide place,” or ad piceum, “near the pine.” Another suggests a derivation from the Tyrolean ampomola or ampoma/ampomes, meaning “raspberry.”

The word Cortina, instead…

…may refer to the natural enclosure created by the crown of Dolomites surrounding the valley, or to a portion of a feudal estate, from the diminutive curtis.

The earliest recorded instance of the two names together dates back to 1317, in the archives of the Regola Alta di Lareto: Curtina Ampitii. Even the roots of the name Cortina d’Ampezzo speak of the rich blend of influences from the North and South that shape the Queen of the Dolomites.

A richness that still makes Cortina today a place of wonder — to be discovered slowly, and experienced deeply.

history and traditions

The Legends of Cortina

The legends of Cortina tell the story of a remarkable land, where moon-colored rocks glow at sunrise and sunset, and flowers bloom like stars scattered by angels across alpine meadows.

These stories speak of witches, priestesses of water and sun, and mysterious forest peoples who met, clashed, and merged with other civilizations, giving rise to new communities, traditions, and rituals.

Cortina’s legends also extend to real historical figures, especially in the world of sport, who have become true icons. Their achievements in major competitions and their extraordinary athletic performances have turned them into lasting symbols, forever woven into the sporting history of the Queen of the Dolomites.

Stories and legends

Mountain Huts and Pastures in Cortina

The mountain farms and pastures in Cortina d’Ampezzo are a cornerstone of its identity, nestled in the heart of the Dolomites Currently, there are four active mountain farms in Cortina d’Ampezzo: Malga Federa, Malga Ra Stua, Malga Peziè de Parù, and Malga Larieto. All of these are owned by the Regole d’Ampezzo and are managed by third parties.

During the summer months, the areas surrounding the alpine huts come alive with animals — cows, goats, pigs, donkeys, chickens, and horses. These landscapes reflect the pastoral traditions and deep connection with nature that have long defined the local community.

In addition to their traditional beauty, the mountain farms are also centers of production, offering exquisite dairy products and cheeses made on-site. Exploring the huts and pastures means immersing yourself in the history and culture of Cortina, gaining a deep understanding of the profound connection between the community and the surrounding mountainous landscape. These places embody authenticity and tradition, making significant contributions to the story of Cortina.

History and mountain farms

Dining in Cortina

Sitting down at the table in Cortina offers a richer experience

— one that warms not only the body, but also the soul.

Here, exceptional cuisine is paired with breathtaking beauty. Whether in the town center or high in the mountains, dining in Cortina means enjoying spectacular natural surroundings, while interiors reflect a refined style that blends Alpine charm with Italian elegance in perfect balance.

The traditional local recipes, crafted from ingredients found in the forests, meadows, and high-altitude agriculture, offer bold flavors. Cortina’s chefs transform these into both classic dishes and innovative, unique creations. And you too can try your hand at creating some traditional recipes.

A journey through flavors, landscapes, and traditions — all waiting to be discovered.

Discover Cortina’s culinary heritage

Choose Cortina and experience a journey through its history and soul.

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THE HISTORY OF CORTINAThe Queen of the Dolomites

Cortina and Its History Between Legends and Traditions