The Walser are a German-speaking Alpine community with a history of migration throughout the Alps. Their traditional lifestyle includes alpine farming and crafts.

Population

~20,000

Origins

The Walser are a German-speaking Alpine community who migrated from the Upper Valais region of Switzerland during the Middle Ages, spreading throughout the Alps. They established settlements in remote valleys across Switzerland, Italy, Austria, and Liechtenstein.

Customs and Culture

The Walser people are known for their traditional wooden architecture, farming practices, and unique dialects. Their culture includes alpine transhumance (seasonal livestock migration) and maintaining traditional mountain crafts.

Activity

Visitors can explore traditional Walser villages with wooden houses, participate in cultural festivals, and experience alpine farming life. The communities in Graubünden, Valais, and Ticino offer guided tours and exhibitions on Walser history and heritage.

Other

Strong cultural preservation efforts in remote valleys