CRAFTS AND TRADITION, THE ROOTS OF BORMIO
The Alta Valtellina area is very popular with tourists. In particular, Bormio is appreciated for the many possibilities it offers its visitors. Its success, however, comes from far away, in fact the tradition and the local culture are imbued with ancient customs, still alive today. These characteristics make Bormio a city to be discovered walking through the streets, visiting the many museums and enjoying a good plate of pizzoccheri.
LOCAL CRAFTS
Bormio is immersed in a unique and magical natural landscape. Nature, however, offers not only breathtaking views, but also guarantees numerous raw materials, the basis of local crafts. Wood, stone, iron, leather and wool are just some of the elements the processing of which has been handed down over the centuries.
Today the old trades are experiencing a rebirth. In particular, craftsmanship revolves around three key figures. The leñaméjr (carpenter), is a popular figure throughout the valley, but this has not led to production being industrialised. Indeed, the manual and traditional techniques form the basis of the carpenter's work. Also feréjr (blacksmith), and therefore the working of iron, is a very common art in the region. Handed down from father to son, the old forges still use anvils and hammers as in the past. Finally, the sciòber (shoemaker), a figure of great charm, which has been lost over the years. Today in Bormio there is only one, Donato, with a small shop in the main square.
LIQUEURS AND BITTERS, THE TASTE OF THE ALPS
Above 1,200 metres, Bormio is not suitable for the production of wine. On the other hand, the land offers numerous ingredients for grappa, bitters and liqueurs. Thus the aroma of the surrounding Alps can also be enjoyed at the table. At the end of the meal, a small glass of Braulio or Teneda is ideal to promote digestion. Braulio hides its secret in thirteen herbs, most of which are gathered in the mountains around Bormio. Ageing in oak barrels for about 2 years is also characteristic. Instead the Teneda is the dialect name of the Achillea moscata, also known as Erba Iva, a plant that grows above 2,000 metres up to the limit of the glaciers.
The local grappa made with ingredients typical of these areas deserve a special mention. The most famous are those with honey and blueberry.
LE MALGHE, EXPERIENCE THE MOUNTAIN
The malga is a typical high mountain construction, used during the summer to shelter livestock, especially cattle, and the production of cheeses and other dairy products.
Visiting a hut means breathing in deeply the mountain air, experiencing its most pristine aspects, returning to nature. A unique experience where the animals are the true protagonists, free to graze on the mountain giving the cheese products an unmistakable taste, to be tried in the tranquillity of the Alps.
These traditions, which have remained unchanged over the centuries, are the real strength of Bormio. A town full of surprises that offers events throughout the year, to make you fall in love even more with a magical and unforgettable place.