The historical and commercial heart of the city
Piazza Cavour, also known as "Piazza Vecchia", is one of the most authentic and historically rich corners of the center of Sondrio. For centuries it has been the hub of city life: markets, fairs, and public gatherings took place here, animating all of Valtellina.
Today, it retains the charm of its origins, amidst architectural testimonies and traces of its ancient commercial vitality.
📚 History and architecture
Located between the Mallero stream and the medieval core of Sondrio, Piazza Cavour has been for centuries the economic and social center of the city.
Surrounding the square are historic buildings, including eighteenth-century houses with stone portals and remnants of the medieval walls. Despite modern urban interventions, the square has managed to preserve its original character.
Important for its strategic position, it was a key node for trade and connections between different parts of the city.
🛋 The market canopy
In 1933, an iron and concrete canopy was built to host the covered market.
This element, still visible today, testifies to the commercial vocation of the square and continues to represent a gathering point for citizens and visitors.
🌊 The fountain and the call to water
At the center of the square, a flush fountain has been installed, a tribute to the historical presence of the "Malleretti," the water channels derived from the Mallero that flowed through the city, feeding mills and irrigating gardens.
An element that symbolically recalls the deep bond between Sondrio and its territory.
🚴️ The horse post and Salita Ligari
Piazza Cavour housed the ancient horse post, fundamental in past centuries as a changing station for travelers and merchants. This confirms the central role of the square in the trade and connections between Valtellina and other regions.
From here also begins the suggestive Salita Ligari, a historic staircase that connects the city center to the Scarpatetti district and to the Masegra hill, dominated by Castel Masegra.
The Salita Ligari of Sondrio is named after the famous family of Valtellinese artists of the eighteenth century, the Ligari, who played a leading role in the cultural history of the city.
The staircase, consisting of about 200 steps, connects the historic center of Sondrio to the Scarpatetti district and to the Masegra hill, where Castel Masegra stands. Along this path, you find the house of the Ligari family, making the climb a symbolic place that testifies to the deep connection between the city and this illustrious family of artists.
🚶♂️ How to reach
- On foot: a few minutes from Piazza Garibaldi and the historic center.
- By car: parking available along the Mallero and in nearby streets.
- By train: Sondrio train station about 10 minutes on foot.
📀 Useful information
- Location: Piazza Cavour, Sondrio (SO)
- Access: free
- Recommended period: year-round
🚶♂️ How to reach
- On foot: from the center of Sondrio, a few minutes from Piazza Garibaldi.
- By car: parking available in the surroundings (recommended along the Mallero).
- By train: Sondrio train station about 10 minutes on foot.
📀 Useful information
- Location: Piazza Cavour, Sondrio (SO)
- Access: free
- Recommended period: year-round
