Valtellinas

The Valtellina is a valley and historical region in the northern part of the Italian region of Lombardy. It is a long and narrow valley carved by the Adda River, spanning about 80 kilometers from Chiavenna to the confluence with the Mera River, near Colico.

The Valtellina is known for its unique cultural identity shaped by its geographical position at the crossroads of the Lombard and Swiss Alps. Traditionally, the inhabitants of the Valtellina are strongly tied to their Alpine herding and farming heritage, which has influenced their ingenuity, resilience, and resourcefulness.

Economically, the Valtellina has a long history of viticulture and winemaking, with the Oltrepo Pavese wine region and Valtellina wine region both located within the valley. The Valtellina wine, a Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) appellation, is a highly prized wine produced from Nebbiolo grapes grown on the steep vineyards.

The Valtellina is an important transport hub and trading center, particularly during the 16th century when it was a key point in the silk trade route between Milan and Florence. Additionally, the region has been an important site for silver mining since ancient times.

In the early 17th century, the Valtellina was fiercely contested between Austria, Spain, and the Swiss Confederacy, leading to a series of devastating conflicts, including the Valtelline War. As a result of the Peace Treaty of Vicenza in 1601, the region was ceded to the Republic of Venice.

Today, the Valtellina remains a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, attracted by the region's picturesque scenery, history, and cultural heritage.