Posted on by Franny Gaede

Peace Inspired by War

The mountains in the Dolomites have preserved an important part of humanity. The integral parts of our society are that of kindness, respect, learning and growth. The region has faced adversity with World War 1 and Turmoil taking place between the many ethnicities that reside in the hills of stone from the Permian period. The prominent history of destruction taking place from 1915-1918 is on the forefront of the mind, even with there being scenic views in every direction. Throughout the last 5 days I have been hiking through Marmolada, Cinque Torri, Lagazuoi, Tofana, Valsugana, Lavarone and Asiago. These are the same paths men took during the war. Their legacy will be remembered forever with the environment and people of the region taking back the land and growing from the dark history of the trenches, tunnels and planes. I have taken this experience to witness the peace that resides after war.

Marmolada: Malga Ombretta

Malaga’s along our route bare fresh cheese made sustainably from shepherds herding alpine cows from the valleys into the alps for grazing
This is an important agricultural practice that helped sustain soldiers in the first war, and the communities today. 

Cinque Torri

While walking in the footsteps of the fallen, it is easy to get caught up in the views of the Dolomites.

Lagazuoi- Tofana di Rozes

The environment mirrors treatment, rocks blown from explosions breaking down the earth in unhealthy ways and rocks giving the hue of red. 
The natural creation of these mountains was used as an advantage in the first war due to tunnels and trenches being carved out of the resource in abundance :  stone.  

Asiago

The stone trenches in Asiago are intact and crucial for understanding that despite stone being a natural creation- man can make unnatural weapons and spaces within it.
Even with the past destruction there is still growth within the region, both with people growing from the hurt and the land reclaiming its territory: shown here with flowers growing from the trenches.

All of the locations listed above are apart of the peace trail in South-Tyrolian and Veneto Dolomites of Northern Italy

he aspect of reclaiming these spaces is important for growth, helping us learn from our mistakes to ensure we move forward and remember the fallen.
The class theme of peace and war helped guide my lens in the direction of focusing on both the destruction and growth that has taken place within the Dolomites.