Scopa

Vivi

Arte e cultura

Borghi e città

Scopa

Rich in fairs and traditional events, Scopa is a mountain village that has witnessed singular historical events, such as the passage of the heretic Dolcino.

THE TOWN OF SCOPA

The origins of Scopa are ancient. Traces can be found in official documents dating back to the Middle Ages, more precisely in the Citizen’s Oath of Vercelli in 1217. Scopa has four hamlets: Muro, Ramello, Salterana and Scopetta. The latter is home to the popular Christmas markets, which attract the curiosity of tourists and residents every year.

The Church of St. Bartholomew, patron saint of the town of Scopa, is one of the oldest in Valsesia. The heart and baptismal centre of all churches in the High Valley, it maintained its role until 1558. The church has a 14th century chapel where legend has it that a group of Valsesians gathered to organise the armed persecution of Fra Dolcino, a friar accused of heresy and executed in 1307. However, several historical sources have disproved this narrative.

Walking through the streets of the village centre, you can spot numerous washhouses, symbols of a bygone daily life. In addition, the prisons, the old oven and the icehouse are still visible. On the top floor of the Town Hall, you can visit the permanent Ethnographic Exhibition of the Scopa Community.

OUTDOOR AND ART TRAILS

The town of Scopa is surrounded by several peaks, including Mount Ventolaro (1,835 m), Mombarone (2,043 m) and the Gavala Teeth (1,676 m).

The area is rich in trails suitable for all levels of fitness, including one of the enchanting “Art Trails” connecting Scopa to Piani Alti. The itinerary, which can be travelled all year round, is dotted with numerous chapels and oratories of considerable artistic interest.

For mountain bike enthusiasts, the stretch of cycle path from Scopa to Riva Valdobbia is a must. Easy to ride and full of breathtaking views, the route is also equipped with several devices that are part of a “fitness trail”.