DISCOVERING PLACES, LANDSCAPES AND STORIES.
Born in Chiavenna and raised in the charming village of Mese, Paolo Rotticci has always had a deep passion for the culture and territory that saw him grow up. After graduating in Modern Literature, he dedicated effort and energy in promoting and enhancing the historical and cultural riches of Valchiavenna and the Province of Sondrio, actively collaborating with local institutions, schools and associations. Today, in addition to teaching History of Art, he is a popular tourist guide who accompanies visitors in the discovery of the hidden treasures of this fascinating region. His connection with the territory is also expressed through his work with the Centro di Studi Storici Valchiavennaschi, the Società Operaia di Chiavenna, the Museo del Tesoro, ScuolAperta and the association La Molinanca di Mese, with which he collaborates to keep historical reference and local culture alive.
The Chiavenna-Colico train, in addition to being a daily means of transport for commuters and students, is also an excellent connection between various points of historical, artistic and naturalistic interest in Valchiavenna. Today, the trains are new and regular, making the journey comfortable and accessible, even for those who want to explore the valley by bike or on foot, thanks to the cycle/pedestrian paths adjacent to the stops. The Chiavenna station, active since 1886, is the perfect starting point, with nearby parking and the Consorzio Turistico for information. Each stop along the railway line throws up the possibility of discovering unique views and panoramas, making the train an ideal choice for tourists too. Setting out from Chiavenna, you pass through various places of interest.
First Prata Camportaccio, where you might visit the characteristic crotti. The train then skirts the river Mera and offers a view across the valley of the San Francesco hydroelectric power station. Just beyond Gordona, pick out the Segname tower, a signalling structure dating back to before the year 1000, and shortly afterwards you arrive in San Cassiano, where you can admire modern religious buildings and 16th-century frescoes. The train continues towards Samolaco, a small town within the confines of ancient Lake Como. Here, the railway line runs through cultivated fields, while the surrounding mountains offer spectacular waterfalls, such as the Pisaròta. In San Pietro and Era di Samolaco you could visit the church of Sant’Andrea al Colle, which has some splendid, vast panoramic views.
Continuing south, the railway passes alongside the Pozzo di Riva, a small body of water that was once linked to the large farm of Gian Giacomo Trivulzio. In Novate Mezzola, a visit to the church of the Holy Trinity isrecommended, with its impressive stucco and Baroque frescoes, and the Picapréda Museum, dedicated to the work of local stonemasons.
From here, paths head off towards Val Codera, a valley that can only be reached on foot, a perfect outing for lovers of nature. The train moves along towards Lake Mezzola, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Then Verceia, where you can visit the Sasso Corbè and the Galleria di Mina, part of a defensive system from the First World War. Crossing the Pian di Spagna, a natural oasis hosting birdlife a’plenty, you arrive at Nuova Olonio, a relatively recently established town linked to the 19th-century land reclamation. The journey ends in Colico, where you could continue on the Milan-Tirano railway line or enjoy exploring Lake Como by boat. An excursion by train not only represents a convenient alternative to the car, but also takes you on an adventure which explores the history and beauty of Valchiavenna.
