Danta: Moorlands, Museum and Churches

Danta offers travellers three distinct points of interest: the Torbiere di Danta, the Museo Paleontologico “Le Radici della Vita” and the churches of the town. Natural landscapes, the history of the Earth and sacred art offer different starting points for planning your trip. You can consider whether you would prefer to combine your stay with walks through the moorlands, palaeontological collections, or architectural history and church art. This makes it possible to get to know Danta through its landscape as well as its history and art.

Moorlands and trails around Danta

At the Torbiere di Danta, a path on boardwalks runs through three distinct peat bogs and branches off across the area. The focus here is on walking through several different areas of moorland. The Torbiere di Danta are considered a unique site for plant biodiversity throughout the entire Alpine arc. For travellers interested in plant life and moorland landscapes, this is a distinctive point of interest alongside the town’s cultural attractions.

In addition, a 6 km hiking route connects Danta with Santo Stefano along the ancient Strada del Centenaro. The route is initially flat and descends in its final section; it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The distance, approximate duration and terrain profile offer concrete criteria when deciding whether to include the route in your day’s plans. Check the trail conditions and signage locally.

A cross-country ski trail was laid out at the Torbiere di Danta for the winter season. When choosing activities based on your travel dates, there is a clear distinction: the ski trail is intended for the winter season, while the hiking route can be assessed by its length, course and approximate duration. Check in advance whether the ski trail will be operating during your trip.

Palaeontological finds and the history of the Earth

The Museo Paleontologico “Le Radici della Vita” in Danta di Cadore displays palaeontological finds from various continents. The exhibits represent all geological eras and are arranged chronologically. Their origins and arrangement offer two different perspectives on the same collection: geographical diversity on the one hand, and chronological sequence on the other. Anyone interested in the history of the Earth will find both finds from different parts of the world and an organisation based on geological eras.

Churches, architectural history and views

The Chiesa Parrocchiale dei Santi Rocco e Sebastiano stands in the centre of Danta on a small hill. It has a distinctive, unique bell tower. The present-day church was built in 1786 and extended in 1938. Inside is an altarpiece by Francesco Vecellio depicting the Madonna and Child with Saints Roch and Sebastian. The church’s history and the specifically named altarpiece offer different points of interest at this parish church.

The Chiesa di Santa Barbara offers a different focus: it stands on Danta’s highest hill and affords views across the entire Val Comelico. It was built to protect the community from natural disasters. The churches therefore differ in their themes too: at Santi Rocco e Sebastiano, the focus is on architectural history and the altarpiece, while at Santa Barbara it is on its elevation, the view and the historical idea of protection.

Museum opening hours

For the Museo Paleontologico “Le Radici della Vita”, municipal information dated 30 August 2024 lists daily opening hours in July and August as 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Check the opening hours before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Faller, Pian Molin-costa di Mezzo, Sospirolo, Campagna, Colderù, Rocca Pietore, Vigo di Cadore, Agordo.

For the overview of the wider area: Belluno.