The Birth, History, Death, and Rebirth of a Symbol
It’s 2018, and thousands of trees are down, uprooted and destroyed by the storm Vaia that struck the forests of the Alpine arc in Trentino. Alpe Cimbra is experiencing a moment of great despair, stunned by the devastating power of nature. However, this tragedy will not only be remembered.
These are days of hard work for the sculptor Marco Martalar, who weaves, shakes, and creates with the remnants of the fallen trees, crafting his greatest work. In October 2021, the community can marvel at the enormous wooden sculpture, Drago Vaia, destined to become a symbol of strength for the entire Alpe Cimbra community.
The Drago Vaia, majestic and imposing on the rock above Magrè in Lavarone, represents a mythological being, a symbol of strength and resilience, ready to take flight. With his genius, Martalar has created a unique and significant piece—the Drago Vaia, the largest wooden sculpture in Europe: 6 meters tall and 7 meters long, composed of 2000 pieces of wood and 3000 screws, one of a kind.
The Drago Vaia represents nature's eternal ability to be reborn.
The Destruction: The Burnt Dragon
Summer on Alpe Cimbra carries the fresh scent of sunshine and carefree holiday spirit, until suddenly, on the evening of August 22, 2023, the sky turns a dark, malevolent fire. The Drago Vaia writhes in the sky, fiery wooden scales flying through the air, and the remnants of the storm's wood cry out across the Alpe like a lament. Its majestic wings, symbols of power and freedom, dissolve into ash, transforming its splendor into a memory of glory.
The community is shocked, incredulous at this act. They feel violated, leaving a vast emptiness in the hearts of those who had admired and appreciated the artwork. This tragic event has sparked a reaction of solidarity and determination: more than 1600 people participated in a crowdfunding campaign to rebuild the dragon. Community members and supporters from across Italy and abroad united to give new life to this symbol.
This loss is not only hard for the local community but for all of Trentino. The destruction of Drago Vaia is not just the loss of an artistic installation but also the loss of a symbol of rebirth following the devastation of the storm Vaia. However, the community's response and the support shown through donations are testaments to their resilience and the will to rebuild, refusing to let destruction prevail.
The Egg and the Rebirth: Dragon Vaia Regeneration
After the fire, among the ashes of Drago Vaia, a sculpted dragon egg was placed, symbolizing new hope. This marks a waiting phase during which sculptor Martalar works on his new creation.
The new Drago Vaia, known as Drago Vaia Regeneration, is not just a reconstruction but a transformation. The new sculpture incorporates elements of the original burnt dragon, with charred and smoky roots intertwining around a powerful metal structure. This work is a challenge and a revenge, symbolizing rebirth from its ashes.
Weighing 6 tons, measuring 16 meters in length and 7 meters in height, the Drago Vaia Regeneration is the largest wooden dragon in the world.
The Sculptures of Marco Martalar
The wooden sculpture Drago Vaia Regeneration by Marco Martalar tells a story of resilience and a strong bond with the territory, emphasizing the connection between man and nature. Martalar has created several works of this kind in Trentino. The Drago Vaia is located in Lavarone and is part of the Lavarone Green Land project, while other works like the Cervo di Vaia and the Lupa del Lagorai are situated in other areas of the Alpine arc. These places symbolize the union of nature and art, offering a unique and profound experience.
Where to See Drago Vaia Regeneration?
Drago Vaia Regeneration is located in Lavarone on Alpe Cimbra in Trentino. There are two ways to reach the Drago Vaia Regeneration:
If you want to take the themed path, the Dragon Trail: You have two options: go to Bertoldi and take the Tablat chairlift (the lift ride is 50% off with the Alpe Cimbra Guest Card), saving 30 minutes of walking, and then follow the Dragon Trail signs. Alternatively, you can start from Bertoldi and Gionghi, following the signs to Magrè Tablat and then, once you reach the Enchanted Den, follow the Dragon Trail signs. This path takes about 45 minutes.
If you’re not interested in the Dragon Trail but want to reach the dragon as quickly as possible: Here are the most suitable options:
Parking at Cost, a 30-minute easy walk to the dragon, not suitable for strollers. The parking lot is 1 km from Magrè towards Luserna.
Parking at Bertoldi, using the chairlift, then following the Magrè Tablat signs with the dragon icon.
Parking at Cappella in the Palù Park and following the Magrè Tablat signs with the dragon icon.
Where to Park to Visit Drago Vaia Regeneration?
The choice of parking depends on the route you prefer to take to reach the Dragon, as there are various parking options at Bertoldi, Gionghi, Cappella, and the Cost area towards Luserna.
ATTENTION: Please do not leave your car or motorcycle in areas not designated as parking, both to respect others' property and to avoid obstructing traffic. Access to the Magré district is restricted to residents and authorized vehicles; everyone is requested to respect the signage and guidelines.
What to Do in Lavarone After Seeing the Dragon?
Lavarone and Alpe Cimbra in Trentino offer many opportunities. If you’re spending a day in the mountains with family, don’t miss a visit to the Palù Park in Cappella or the fascinating Forte Belvedere (free entry with the Alpe Cimbra Guest Card).
If you’d like to experience a mountain vacation as if you were at the seaside… in just a few minutes, you could be lounging under the sun at Lake Lavarone!
Remember that if you stay at partner accommodations in Alpe Cimbra, you will receive the Alpe Cimbra Guest Card, which grants you free access to various activities, museums, and fortresses in Alpe Cimbra and Trentino. With the Alpe Cimbra Guest Card, you get free entry to Forte Belvedere and can take the Tablat chairlift with a 50% discount!
