Gambellara

Gambellara is a small municipality situated in the northern part of Italy, within the autonomous region of Trentino-Alto Adige. The town lies in the upper valley of the Iris River, at an altitude of approximately 900 metres above sea level, and covers an area of about 12 square kilometres. Its geographic coordinates place it roughly 110 kilometres north of Verona and 25 kilometres east of the city of Trento. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the Dolomites, offering a rugged terrain that has shaped the local way of life.

The history of Gambellara dates back to the early medieval period, with the first documented mention of the village in a 12th‑century charter. Over the centuries the settlement evolved under the influence of the Patriarchate of Aquileia, later becoming part of the Austrian Empire after the fall of the Habsburgs. The 20th century brought considerable change, as the two World Wars left its effects in the form of restoration projects and the monument to local defenders. The contemporary town retains architectural elements from the Romanesque and Gothic periods, most notably the small parish church dedicated to Saint Michael, built in the 15th century.

The local economy is largely based on agriculture and tourism. Small-scale production of apple brands, cheese, and honey is common among the residents, while the scenic road network through the valleys makes Gambellara a popular destination for hikers, cyclists and winter sports enthusiasts. The municipality hosts an annual spring festival celebrating the harvest, which features regional dishes such as polenta with braised rabbit and local wines.

In terms of demographics, Gambellara had an estimated population of 1,500 in 2020, with a population density of 125 inhabitants per square kilometre. The primary language spoken is Italian, with many inhabitants also conversant in German and the local Ladin dialect. Literacy rates are high, reflecting the region’s emphasis on education and cultural preservation.