Albosaggia
Access
The village is well connected: it can be easily reached by car or public transport from Sondrio, railway station on the Milan-Tirano line; the nearest airport is Milan (Malpensa or Linate), with easy access.
Introduction
Located on the Orobic side of the middle Valtellina, opposite Sondrio, Albosaggia rises amidst woods, streams and cultivated slopes, offering visitors a relaxing landscape marked by the authentic Valtellina. The place name has ancient and debated origins: it may derive from 'holy mountain', or from pre-Latin forms that evoke depressions, to links to Roman families - evidence of the deep intertwining of nature, language and history in the area.
Description
The municipal territory covers an area of approximately 34 km², with an average altitude of around 490 m. Broad-leaved forests give way, above 1 200 m, to conifers and a fauna ranging from birds of prey such as the eagle to chamois, deer, roe deer and ibex. Between the reliefs, pastures and mountain pastures open up, reflecting the mountain vocation of the place.
The history of Albosaggia has its roots in prehistoric times, as suggested by the discovery of a bronze axe. Written evidence of the village, originally known as 'Paradiso', dates back to the 13th century, when the first structure of the future parish church dedicated to St Catherine was erected here. The presence of the palace of the powerful Paribelli family, a noble family in the Holy Roman Empire, whose influence marked the transition from the Middle Ages to the modern age, is still astonishing.
Albosaggia has long had an agricultural and zootechnical tradition, before gradually transforming itself thanks to the development of craftsmanship, construction, trade and services. A key element of the local economy is the hydroelectric power station on the Torchione stream: built in 1922, modernised in 1982, it now powers Enel Green Power.
The community maintains a strong cultural identity. Among the most heartfelt events are the literary festival 'Il Paese delle Storie' (The Land of Stories), interpreted in the spirit of the mountains, and the 'Scargaámuut' event, dedicated to alpine farmers in collaboration with Caiolo. Moreover, in December, the village hosts Christmas markets that animate the historic centre.
Those who love to walk and breathe pure air find in Albosaggia a privileged starting point. Panoramic paths lead to Alpe Campelli and Pizzo Meriggio, immersed in woods and pastures, offering views of the authentic Valtellina. The nearby Paribelli Castle adds a touch of historical charm to the itineraries.
Information
Area: 34.00 sq km
Altitude: 490m
Maximum elevation: Pizzo Campaggio (2502m)
Number of inhabitants: 3146
Name in dialect: Busàša
Inhabitant name: bosaggini
Patron Saint: Saint Catherine (25 November)
Website: www.comune.albosaggia.so.it
Webcam:
Bordering municipalities: Caiolo, Castione Andevenno, Faedo Valtellino, Montagna in Valtellina, Piateda, Sondrio
Villages and hamlets: Centro, Moia, Porto, Torchione, Segrada, Rosera