Bienno (BS) - One of the most beautiful villages in Italy - Camonica Valley - Lombardy
- Tuttitaly
- Oct 30, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 22
Father Espedito says of this homeland of blacksmiths and forges: "In this village, there are stones that speak and tell what is around us, there are even the song of water and the song of silence that lead to all this richness, to this memory... #tuttitaly
The village of Bienno is located in Val Camonica, Lombardy, and is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Its history is closely linked to the activity of iron artisans, which has ancient roots dating back to Roman times. However, it was during the Celtic period that this activity began.
The work of iron artisans in Bienno is characterized by hard work using the anvil and hammer. Only in the 10th century, with the arrival of the Benedictines, did water mills start to be used. It is discovered that the water wheel fits perfectly with the current of the Grigna stream for the operation of the hammer, and the artificial canal called "Vaso Re" begins to be built.
From that moment on, the ironworking activity became central throughout the area and continues today despite the crisis that hit the sector in the 19th century.
Today, it is possible to discover the industrial history of the village by visiting the places related to this activity and walking along the path of the "Vaso Re," traced by the water.
However, Bienno is not only famous for its ironworking activity. Its medieval center, with mighty stone walls, narrow alleys, tall houses, original portals decorated with friezes and coats of arms carved in stone, Renaissance palaces with elegant loggias, churches, and well-preserved tall towers, offers a unique atmosphere.
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