Luis Trenker, alpinist, director and writer, was one of the most famous citizens of the Val Gardena valley, coming from Ortisei
On October 4, 1892, a certain Alois Franz Trenker was born in Ortisei, Val Gardena. In those days, anyone knew that he would once become one of the most famous citizens of the valley.
Trenker finished his education in the construction and handicraft school of Bolzano, the middle school in Innsbruck and finally architectural studies at the Technical University of Graz. Already in his school-time he used to work as ski instructor and alpine guide. The first contact with movie-making dates back to the year 1921, when he was hired as alpine guide for the movie „Berg des Schicksals“, in which he also came to assume the lead. As director, however, he made his debut with the silent film „Kampf ums Matterhorn“. Beside his films, Trenker also published a series of novels and adventure stories. After his film career he contributed to the popularity of the Val Gardena valley by giving numerous interviews. In 1990 Luis Trenker died and was buried in his home
town.
At his personal desire, a homestead was established and his entire personal estate was committed to the Museum Gherdëina in 2004. In the "Luis Trenker archive" has been digitally captured and selected objects such as distinctions, film awards, requisites, placards and pics are presented in a separate department.
Along the path named after him there is situated also a monument dedicated to the famous alpinist and actor.
