The earth pyramids of Plata in the municipality of Percha, near Bruneck, are a natural spectacle formed by nature itself. The Plata pyramids are among the most beautiful natural monuments in South Tyrol, together with the pyramids of Renon.
A few centuries ago, following a cloudburst, a landslide formed, interrupting the mule track that once joined the 'Thalerhof' and Sopranessano. It would have been easy to fill the gap created with earth, but no one did so as it was not an important connection. In 1882, a great cloudburst occurred again and a large fissure was formed. As a result of the repeated action of washout and erosion of the stony slopes, clay columns topped by large stones were formed. These earth pyramids are constantly changing, especially in winter and new ones are constantly being formed in spring. The area of erosion is located at an altitude of 1550 to 1750 metres and constitutes the most significant occurrence of earth pyramids in the Pustertal valley, not least because of the widely varying dimensions of the formations.
How to get to the Terra di Plata Pyramids near Percha
From Percha - coming from San Candido turn right after Percha, coming from Brunico turn left at the entrance to the village - follow the road to Vila di Sopra or Oberwielenbach. Continue in the direction of Plata, where you can leave your car at the second car park on your right. Following the signs for 'Pyramidenweg', you first climb up a section of steps, after which you proceed slightly uphill along the forest path, crossing part of the meadows of the Höllerhof farm. From the farmstead, you continue towards the Earth Pyramids. The walk is suitable for families and lasts 35 minutes.
