It’s a place that lives, breathes and talks of the Past. Unsurprisingly an Italian/ Swiss Association overseeing Piuro’s Archaeological site has, in recent years, taken full advantage holding a range of cultural events at Belfòrt – theatre, opera and art – all much appreciated by the public at large. Pastureland alongside the river, surrounding woodland and the lure of the ruins themselves all testify to the lost splendour following the devastating landslide of 1618. No doubt though – the fascination with Belfòrt lives on.

Volunteers at work in ensuring the safety of the site were delighted to discover – specifically under the palazzo dei Piaceri – vast spaces highlighting the imposing size and care of construction that the cellars and crotti represent.

Once freed from the mainly river-borne detritus within, a range of stone artifacts were revealed. And once completed, the very real grandeur of the Palazzo will be evident along with the genuine creativity of artisans within the local populace even during that era. Since 2005 when the salvage of the Belfòrt site on the eastern edge of Piuro began, some extraordinary surviving architecture has been revealed and put to excellent cultural use. By sheer good fortune, the original buildings had not been entirely overwhelmed by the landslide – unlike the vast majority of the flourishing little town – which had also claimed around 2000 victims. Vintage prints and 17th century canvases conserved at the Palazzo Vertemate Franchi – another fortunate survivor of the disaster – illustrate a most striking abode belonging to one of Piuro’s many affluent families.

The impressive yet haunting remains at Belfòrt are reached by following the minor road which leaves the main SS37 at the level of the shrine at the bridge at Borgonuovo, and continuing along the right bank of the river. The final approach is made on foot within a genuinely natural and enchanting environment.

There’s also a jolly fine bicycle path from here all the way down to Chiavenna.

Look out for details of future events.