Lombardy
Bormio

The “Magnifica Terra” of Bormio
and the “Honorate Valli”

The basin of Bormio is very inviting and has been inhabited since ancient times. Archeological traces demonstrate definite evidence of the Romans who in the early years of the Roman Empire frequented the “ Thermal Baths “even famous in those days.

The name of Bormio derives from the same thermal waters: the most creditable hypothesis is that it refers to the Celtic term “worm” which means hot, with evident reference to the steaming springs that gush from the slopes of the Reit mountain.

Bormio - Photo © rockrose

The strategic importance of Bormio, that held in custody important alpine passes, gave it the deserved status of “Contea”, even though it passed under many dominions.

Bormio in its relationship with other major powers was more allied than subjected: in fact Bormio was granted the right to have a civil and penal independent legislation. Under Austrian rule, at the beginning of the nineteenth century, Alta Valtellina saw the realization of an excellent network of roads. Between 1820 and 1825 the Stelvio road was constructed, the highest pass in Europe.

The Alta Valtellina turistic development first came about due to the renowned Thermal waters, then later for the increasing interest in mountaineering (where here one of the most interesting destination was found) with the ever growing number of guides and the first hotels. However it was the winter sport facilities that started the real touristic industry going, along with new hotels being built for high quality free time.

Text courtesy of Provincia di Sondrio Ufficio Turismo

© 1997-2010 Enrico Massetti
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