Nova Ponente (Deutschnofen in German) is a town in the province of Bolzano, in South Tyrol, located on the plateau of Mount Regolo (Regglberg), above Val d'Ega, at the foot of the massifs of Rosengarten, Latemar and Sciliar.
The town's name, documented for the first time in the XII century, derives from the Latin word "nova" (reclaimed land, ready for cultivation).
It is a preferred resort in Summer, thanks to the several footpaths and trails, and in Winter, due to its proximity to the slopes of the Ski Center Latemar-Obereggen.
The discovery of prehistoric finds state that the area was inhabited since the ancient times. The Roman colonization is confirmed by the discovery of an altar dedicated to the god Saturn and a contemporary bronze sword. During the XIII century the Bishops of Trento and Bressanone encouraged the immigration of German laborers, to promote farming and mining activities.
Sites of Interest:
- the Castle of Thurn, the current city hall, houses a museum which exhibits finds of the South Tyrolean culture and works of religious art. It was seat of the local court and sentenced till the XVI century;
- the small Gothic Church of St. Helena, which preserves within several masterpieces. It is flanked by a Bell Tower which is one of the oldest in the region;
- the Parish Church of Saints Ulrich and Wolfgang, consecrated in 1498, which houses artworks by Giovanni da Judemburg and some other famous artists of Val Gardena;
- the medieval Church of St. Agatha;
- the Church of St. Nicholas;
- the Sanctuary of Pietralba, a Baroque church of the XVII century.