Ponte in Valtellina

Ponte in an ancient village: two engraved boulders were found in Castionetto (part of Chiuro) and two in Chiuro, proving the existence of human settlements in the Prehistoric era.

INHABITANTS

2289

DENSITY

33,8 inhabitants/sq. km

AREA

67,73 sq. km

ELEVATION

486 m a.s.l.

PATRON SAINT

Saint Maurice

The name Vico Ponte appeared for the first time in 918 and is thought to derive from the German word biunte, a Lombard that indicated an enclosed and cultivated field. Other think it refers to a bridge on the river Adda or on the creek Rhon.

The village of Ponte was one of the first cultural centres of the valley. The academic F. Quadrio and the astronomer G. Piazzi were born here. This fact is very interesting from a historical point of view. After the year 1000 the village became very important thanks to the Quadrio family. Ponte is well known for its apple orchards and its economy is mainly based on agriculture, but craft activities are also relevant.

Many places are definitely worth a visit: the church of Our Lady of the Fields (16th century), the Parish church of Saint Maurice, where three styles can be seen (Romanesque, Gothic and Reinassance), the Oratory of the Disciplini with frescoes by Fermo Stella, the church of Saint Ignatius (17th centrury) and the old town center, that is the perfect combination of peasant courtyards and

aristocratic residences. The Astronomical observatory dedicated to Giuseppe Piazzi opened in 2009. With its cutting-edge equipment, the observatory gives visitors the chance to discover the fascinating celestial bodies. Educational, tourist and scientific activities are often organized.