The term 'Stoanerne Mandln' translates from the local dialect to 'Stone Little Men'.
Archaeological findings suggest the site may have served as a prehistoric cult location long before medieval witchcraft trials were documented in the area.
The cairns are frequently rebuilt or modified by hikers, leading to constant changes in their quantity and configuration.
The site sits on the geographical border dividing the Etschtal valley from the Sarntal valley.
Geologically, the area is characterized by Permian porphyry rock formations typical of the Southern Alps.
Omini di Pietra, or Stoanerne Mandln, are ancient stone cairns situated at an elevation of 2,003 meters on the summit of Hoher Ifinger in the Sarntal Alps. The site features dozens of human-shaped stone stacks arranged across a high-altitude plateau. These structures are historically linked to local folklore regarding witches and occult rituals dating back to the Middle Ages. The location offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Dolomites, the Ortler group, and the Ötztal Alps. There are no permanent structures at the summit, only the natural rocky landscape and the man-made cairns. Visitors reach the site via hiking trails originating from the village of Meltina or the Jenesien plateau.
The highest point of the plateau looking toward the Rosengarten massif in the east during the golden hour.
Bring a windbreaker or warm layer, as the high-altitude summit experiences rapid temperature drops even in summer.
Carry sufficient water, as there are no natural springs or mountain huts directly at the stone site.
Use trekking poles to navigate the final rocky incline to the summit.
Attempting the hike during adverse weather or cloud cover, as the trail markings can be difficult to follow on the open plateau.
The site is inaccessible in winter and early spring due to deep snow and avalanche risks; best visited from late June through early October.
Do not dismantle or move existing stone figures to create new ones, as this contributes to erosion and impacts the integrity of the historical site.
