A widespread museum among nature, history, and alpine culture
The Ecomuseo della Valgerola is a widespread museum that embraces the municipalities of Gerola Alta, Pedesina, Rasura, and Cosio Valtellino, in the heart of the Val Gerola, part of the Orobie Valtellinesi Regional Park. Officially established in 2008, the ecomuseum was created to enhance and preserve the material and immaterial heritage of the valley, through the active participation of local communities.
🏘️ A territory to explore
The ecomuseum develops in a mountainous territory ranging from 400 to 2500 meters in altitude, characterized by historical settlements linked to agriculture, livestock breeding, and the use of natural resources. Points of interest include:
- Ancient dwellings and traditional workshops
- Alpine pastures and meadows still in use today
- Churches and historical chapels
- Thematic museums and educational paths
🧭 Cultural itineraries
The ecomuseum proposes cultural itineraries that connect various points of interest, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in local history and traditions. One of the main itineraries has two access points, from Cosio Valtellino and Talamona, and is connected to the Sentiero Valtellina.
🏛️ The House of Time
In Gerola Alta, near the parish church, there is the visitor center “The House of Time”, which offers an exhibition path from the geology to the human history of the valley, through fossil remains, evidence of plant and animal life, and everyday objects.
🧒 Activities for families and schools
The ecomuseum organizes educational activities for schools and families, including:
- Workshops and guided tours
- Summer camps for children
- Thematic paths to discover the nature and culture of the valley
These initiatives aim to actively involve visitors in exploring the territory and its traditions.
🧀 Typical products
Valgerola is renowned for its typical products, including:
- Bitto cheese and Mascherpa
- Capra di Valgerola
These products represent the gastronomic excellence of the valley and are the result of ancient dairy traditions.
ℹ️ Useful information
- Address: Via Pietro De Mazzi, 11 – 23010 Gerola Alta (SO)
- Phone: +39 393 8644223
- Email: info@ecomuseovalgerola.it
- Website: www.ecomuseovalgerola.it
- Opening hours: summer opening; for group visits, contact the Infopoint.
🚗 How to get there
- By car: from Morbegno, follow the SP7 towards Gerola Alta.
- Parking: available near the town center.