Ronco Canavese

Ronco Canavese
Comune
Comune di Ronco Canavese
Location of Ronco Canavese
Ronco Canavese Location of Ronco Canavese in Italy Ronco Canavese Ronco Canavese (Piedmont)
Coordinates: 45°30′N 7°33′E
Country	Italy
Region	Piedmont
Metropolitan city	Turin (TO)
Government
• Mayor	Danilo Crosasso
Area
• Total	96.7 km2 (37.3 sq mi)
Elevation	956 m (3,136 ft)
Population  (31 December 2010)
• Total	319
• Density	3.3/km2 (8.5/sq mi)
Demonym	Ronchesi
Time zone	UTC+1 (CET)
• Summer (DST)	UTC+2 (CEST)
Postal code	10080
Dialing code	0124

Ronco Canavese is nestled in the alpine region of Valle Soana. Ronco Canavese is a small mountain municipality in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy, about 50 km north of Turin. It lies at the center of the Soana Valley (Valle Soana), perched on one side of the Soana river and surrounded by dense forests and towering peaks.

The village sits at about 956 m elevation, while its territory ranges from deep valley floors (around 774 m) up to high alpine summits of over 3,400 m. This dramatic terrain is part of the Graian Alps near the Gran Paradiso massif, featuring waterfalls, glacial cirques, and pristine mountain lakes. The climate is alpine, with cold, snowy winters and mild summers – the area receives abundant precipitation, including over 3 meters of snowfall annually on average.

These natural conditions have fostered rich forests and alpine meadows, making Ronco Canavese a green haven with unspoiled ecosystems.

Ronco Canavese borders the following municipalities: Cogne, Valprato Soana, Traversella, Locana, Ingria, Ribordone, Pont Canavese, Convento, Bosco, and Sparone.

In recent years (2023–2025), Ronco Canavese has undertaken several initiatives to revitalize the community and improve local infrastructure. In 2025, the municipal government introduced a tourist lodging tax—reportedly the first in the Soana Valley—set at €1.50 per night per visitor. The revenue, estimated at a few thousand euros annually, is allocated entirely to enhancing tourist services, such as improved signage, trail maintenance, local events, and partnerships with neighboring towns to enrich the visitor experience. This initiative reflects the administration’s view of tourism as a key driver of sustainable local development, with the goal of improving the quality of visitor experiences and attracting more tourists to Ronco Canavese.

Another recent initiative in Ronco Canavese is the deployment of digital infrastructure for environmental monitoring. In April 2025, the Politecnico di Torino installed two new weather stations as part of the national recovery plan (PNRR) project "Montagna Digitale e Sostenibile". These stations, located at the sports facility in Via Valprato and at the former school in the Tressi hamlet, supplement an existing ARPA Piemonte station and contribute to collecting local climate data. Although not certified for official use, the data supports scientific research and regional meteorological networks.

In spring 2025, the municipality overhauled its waste management system. A new collection method introduced by Teknoservice was accompanied by community outreach, including public meetings and the release of a dedicated smartphone app to assist residents and second-home owners. The program aims to modernize waste services, increase recycling rates, and better preserve the alpine environment.

Local authorities have also emphasized infrastructure safety and legality. Between 2024 and 2025, several building sites in the area underwent official inspections, resulting in enforcement measures where safety violations were found.

In April 2025, Ronco Canavese was affected by a severe rainstorm that caused flooding and landslides throughout the Soana Valley. Roads such as Crotto–Tiglietto and Cernisio–Servino were temporarily closed due to washouts, and several hamlets including Convento and Villanuova experienced stream overflows. Trail networks also suffered damage, including the Ronco–Tiglietto path. In response, the municipality and Gran Paradiso National Park rangers formed a 24/7 emergency task force to conduct surveys and coordinate repairs. Restoration and resilience planning are underway, prompted in part by signs of changing climate conditions, such as unusually low snowlines during the storm.

One of the most ambitious development efforts in the region is “Progetto Apice,” launched in 2025 to counter mountain depopulation and promote local entrepreneurship. The project, supported by the Compagnia di San Paolo foundation and Réseau Entreprendre Piemonte, identifies the Soana Valley—including Ronco Canavese, Valprato, and Ingria—as a “laboratory of social innovation.” It provides mentoring, training, and financial support to entrepreneurs under 40, with up to ten projects undergoing incubation and six receiving grants of up to €25,000. Initiatives may include agro-tourism, local services, or reuse of unused public buildings. The Mayor, Lorenzo Giacomino, described the initiative as “a real opportunity for young people to build a future in our mountains,” underlining the goal of revitalizing the highlands without sacrificing their heritage.

History

Ronco Canavese has medieval origins, with the first parish church established in the 13th century. In 1280 the village's parish split from the older parish of Campiglia, indicating an established community by that time. For centuries the local economy was based on subsistence agriculture, pastoralism, and small-scale crafts. An important historical industry was metalworking – the village's copper forge at Castellaro, dating to 1675, used water power from mountain streams to produce copper and iron tools. This forge operated until 1950 and even produced materials like cookware and possibly armaments during the Napoleonic era.Like many alpine communities, Ronco Canavese experienced waves of emigration in the 19th and 20th centuries. Many residents left seasonally or permanently to find work, notably as woodworkers and glassmakers abroad. The Santuario Madonna del Crest in the hamlet of Castellaro stands as a poignant memorial to this legacy – its statues depict a glassblower and coppersmith under the Virgin's gaze, and inside an altar of 68 votive lights commemorates the valley men who died working in France and Switzerland

During the 1900s, especially after World War II, depopulation accelerated as young people moved to cities for better opportunities. The valley also endured natural disasters; for example, the catastrophic floods of 1993–1994 and 2000 caused severe damage in Val Soana, washing out roads and bridges and forever marking local memory.

Despite these challenges, Ronco Canavese's community has shown resilience, preserving its heritage and adapting to modern initiatives.

Demographics

Ronco Canavese today is very sparsely populated, with only a few hundred residents. As of recent counts, the population is around 300–350 people, a dramatic decline from its peak a century ago. In the early 20th century the valley was well-populated (over 3,000 inhabitants in 1911), but over the last hundred years the resident population dropped by about 90%. This steep decline is attributed to migration and falling birth rates, leaving an aging community. Many villages and hamlets in the surrounding mountains are now only seasonally inhabited. The population is older on average, as younger generations have largely moved to urban centers. In recent years a small uptick or stabilization has been noted due to retirees returning and some families choosing a rural lifestyle, but the community remains one of mostly seniors. A notable aspect is the presence of some French-speaking families and second-home owners – Ronco has long-standing ties with French and Franco-Provençal culture, and about 13% of its registered residents are foreign nationals (chiefly French). This reflects both historical links and the influx of French holiday homeowners who reside in Ronco during summers. Overall, the town is a close-knit community where almost everyone knows each other, and efforts are underway to support the elderly population (for example, through a community nursing program for remote mountain villages)

Economy

Traditional industries in Ronco Canavese were based on the valley's natural resources. For centuries, families engaged in small-scale farming and livestock raising (mainly cattle and goats), producing dairy products like alpine cheeses and cultivating hardy crops like rye and potatoes. The village's past also includes mining and metal crafts – as evidenced by the historic copper forge – and woodworking. The fast-flowing Soana stream was harnessed to power mills, sawmills, and forges; in fact, by the 19th century Ronco and nearby towns hosted mills and early factories that took advantage of water power. However, as the local economy modernized, many of these activities declined. Artisanal trades like wood carving, wool spinning, and cheese-making survived in reduced form, often for local use or tourism.Today, the economy is modest and service-oriented, with an emphasis on tourism, small commerce, and environmental resources. Ronco Canavese serves as the main service center of Val Soana, despite its size. It hosts a few family-run shops, cafes, a post office, and guesthouses that cater to visitors in the summer. Tourism is a vital sector, especially in July and August when many former residents or their descendants return for holidays and French vacationers occupy their second homes. These summer visitors boost local businesses like restaurants (where one can taste polenta and game), artisan markets, and guided excursions. A few agriturismi (farm-stay B&Bs) operate in the area, offering lodging and local cuisine. There is limited agriculture still practiced – some residents keep cattle or bees, producing niche products like mountain honey and traditional cheese for local sale. Public sector employment (municipal administration, park rangers, etc.) also provides some jobs given Ronco's role as a municipal and park hub. In recent years, a forward-looking initiative has been the establishment of a renewable energy cooperative: in late 2024 the valley launched “Fervores” (Future Renewable Energy for Orco and Soana Valleys), the first community-led renewable energy project in the Canavese area. This energy community aims to jointly produce and share sustainable power (e.g. small hydro or solar), keeping energy revenues in the local economy. Such projects, along with improving digital connectivity, are seen as keys to fostering sustainable development and perhaps attracting new residents or entrepreneurs to Ronco Canavese.

Culture & Traditions

Despite its small size, Ronco Canavese is rich in cultural heritage and alpine traditions. The community is part of the Franco-Provençal (Arpitan) linguistic area, and an alpine dialect known as “valsoanin” is still spoken by older residents. French influences are evident in local surnames and in the ease with which locals switch between Italian and French/Piedmontese dialect when chatting. Traditional customs remain alive, often tied to the seasons and religious calendar. The patron saint of Ronco is San Giusto Martire, celebrated with a big festa on the last Sunday of July each year. During the Festa di San Giusto, the village comes alive with outdoor Mass, processions, communal meals, music and dancing, and reunions of families – many expatriates plan their visits to coincide with this event. Earlier in July, the hamlet of Boschettiera hosts the “Festa del Pane” (Bread Festival) at its centuries-old community oven. Every first Sunday of July, villagers fire up the historic stone bread oven – originally built for communal baking – and reenact the old tradition of mixing, leavening, and baking bread together c This festival, started in 1998, has become a beloved way to honor the valley's rural heritage, with locals and visitors gathering to make bread, share folk recipes, and celebrate around the oven's warmth.

Other folklore and festivities enliven the summer: mountain folklore about the “masche” (mysterious witches or spirits of Piedmontese legend) is celebrated in night hikes and story-telling events under the stars. For instance, an annual guided excursion to Pian delle Masche invites participants to dine on polenta, local meats, and cheeses at a high pasture, then dance “with the masche” in a playful homage to local legends.

Throughout Val Soana, many small chapels and shrines dot the hamlets – some of these have their own feast days or processions, reflecting the deep-rooted Catholic traditions of the community. In winter, when heavy snow isolates the valley, cultural life turns inward: families maintain the custom of gathering to tell stories in the dialect, play cards, and prepare traditional foods like bagna cauda (warm garlic–anchovy dip) or hearty stews. Cuisine in Ronco Canavese is classic Piedmontese mountain fare: staples include polenta (often served with wild game or local cheese), rye bread, cured meats, and hearty soups with beans or cabbage. Notably, chestnuts were historically important (ground into flour or roasted) and are still used in local dishes and desserts. The connection to the land is also evident in craftsmanship – a few artisans keep alive old trades, like making wooden sabots (clogs) or weaving fabrics from wool. These traditions, whether in language, food, or festivity, are actively preserved by the community, giving Ronco Canavese a strong cultural identity that belies its small population.

Visual and Cultural Resources

The historic copper forge (“Fucina del Rame”) in Ronco Canavese, now an ecomuseum, was restored and reopened to the public in recent years. Cultural heritage projects in Ronco Canavese have added valuable content that could be reflected in an expanded article, especially with visual illustrations. A prime example is the Ecomuseo del Rame (Copper Ecomuseum) housed in the old copper forge at the hamlet of Castellaro. This stone forge, dating back to the late 17th century, is a rare surviving testament to the valley’s pre-industrial craft economy . After a period of closure for structural restoration (notably a new roof), the forge was re-opened in 2023 with the support of Gran Paradiso National Park and funding from the Compagnia di San Paolo . It now offers an experiential museum where visitors can learn about traditional copper working, an activity that was once central to Ronco’s economy . Exhibits include the original water-powered machinery; park guides demonstrate how water turning a wheel could drive large hammers (magli) to beat hot copper . At its peak in the 1800s, this very forge could produce up to 1,500–1,800 copper vessels a day – a remarkable output for a mountain village workshop . The ecomuseum also runs hands-on workshops where visitors can try copper-smithing techniques and crafts, thereby keeping the old skills alive in a modern context pngp.it . Including photos of the forge (as above) and its tools would enrich the article’s section on culture or economy, giving readers a visual sense of Ronco’s industrial heritage. Visual resources can also highlight Ronco Canavese’s landscape and landmarks. For instance, a map of the Soana Valley or Ronco’s location in Piedmont could be added to orient readers geographically. The village’s scenery – small stone houses along the Soana stream against a backdrop of wooded mountains – is characteristic of Alpine settlements and could be illustrated with an image. Several such photographs are available (e.g., on Wikimedia Commons) that show Ronco’s panoramic view, including the bell tower of the parish church of San Giusto and the terraced riverbanks that protect the town from floods【39†】. Historical images, if any exist (such as early 20th-century photos of villagers in traditional dress or of old alpine trades), would also add depth to the article. Additionally, the town’s notable buildings and sites can be visually presented: the parish Church of San Giusto (originally founded in the 13th century and later modified) , the Santuario della Madonna del Crest above Ronco, and the Park’s visitor center in Ronco dedicated to the Alpine chamois are all points of interest. Including an image of the Santuario di San Besso (described below) or the “Marmitta del Gigante” (a geological pothole in the Soana stream) could further engage readers. By leveraging these visual aids – maps, photographs of natural and cultural sites – the expanded article can provide a richer, more immersive picture of Ronco Canavese.

Local Legends and Oral Histories

Ronco Canavese’s lore and traditions add a human dimension to its history, and these could be expanded in the article through the inclusion of local legends and stories passed down over generations. One of the most celebrated legends is tied to the Santuario di San Besso, a small mountainside shrine in the upper Soana Valley.

The Sanctuary of San Besso clings to the foot of a sheer rock face at 2,019 m, where according to legend the saint’s fall left an imprint in the stone. The tale recounts that Saint Besso, a Roman legionnaire of the Theban Legion, fled to these highlands to escape persecution. At the site where the sanctuary now stands (perched dramatically under a towering cliff), Besso was martyred – some versions say he was thrown against the rock, miraculously leaving a footprint or mark in the stone. This mark is venerated as a sign of the saint’s presence, giving the place an aura of mystery and sanctity. For centuries, both Val Soana locals and people from the Aosta Valley (notably Cogne) have journeyed to this sanctuary for an annual pilgrimage. The main feast occurs on August 10th each year (with a secondary one on December 1st), when crowds from both sides of the mountain climb 700 m up from Campiglia Soana, converging at the chapel in a festival of faith and folklore. It’s a day of outdoor Mass, traditional music, and communal meals, and often villagers attend dressed in their old costumes, carrying banners. The San Besso pilgrimage is not only a religious event but also a social one, reinforcing identity – an ethnographic study observed how it remains a meaningful ritual for both longtime residents and those with roots in the valley, symbolizing unity between “past and present” participants. Including the story of San Besso and perhaps an image of the sanctuary under the rock (as above) would enrich the cultural section of the article with this enduring legend. Another revived tradition in Ronco Canavese is “Lo Gran Dilun de Ronc”, literally the Great Monday of Ronco. This was an old village festival celebrated on the Monday after Pentecost (the “big Monday” following Whitsunday) that had fallen out of practice in the late 20th century. In 2022, community leaders and the local Pro Loco decided to bring back Lo Gran Dilun, turning it into an annual event once more. The festival’s revival has been a success: for example, in May 2023 the day-long celebration included a well-attended Mass at the parish church of San Giusto and festivities where residents from all the frazioni (hamlets) came together. Many participants donned costumi caratteristici della Valle Soana – the traditional valley costumes – highlighting pride in local heritage. The atmosphere is one of reunion and continuity, connecting younger generations with the customs of their forebears. According to the mayor’s statements and local news coverage, the goal of resurrecting “Lo Gran Dilun” is to create a new occasion for social cohesion and to ensure that ancient communal celebrations “never fade from memory”. Such oral history and folk events underscore Ronco’s strong communal spirit. Adding a subsection on Local festivals and folklore to the article would allow inclusion of these stories. It could describe the San Besso pilgrimage, the Great Monday feast, and perhaps other anecdotes (for instance, local nicknames, proverbs in dialect, or the story behind the Madonna del Crest sanctuary which is another site of local devotion). These elements give a richer portrait of Ronco Canavese beyond facts and figures – portraying how the community remembers its past and celebrates its identity.

Sports

Historical Alpine Sports and Traditions

Sports and outdoor pursuits have deep roots in Ronco Canavese’s alpine culture. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, mountaineering gained popularity as explorers and locals alike tackled the surrounding peaks (the Torre di Lavina at 3,308 m was already noted as “the most beautiful summit of Val Soana” by 1920). Winter pastimes included informal skiing and scialpinismo (ski mountaineering) on local slopes before modern lifts existed. Traditional village games were also important social activities; bocce (boules) has long been a favorite in Ronco’s piazzas. This pastime continues today – in 2022 the town even inaugurated a new pétanque court at its sports ground to support local boules players. Despite its small size, Ronco has produced athletes of national prominence. Piero Martin, born in Ronco in 1899, became a top-tier footballer – he played right-back for Torino F.C. and was part of the club’s championship-winning squad in the 1920s. A generation later, Osvaldo Picchiottino (b. 1932) emerged as an alpine ski racer: he won the Italian national slalom championship in 1961 and went on to coach the Italian women’s national ski team in the 1960s . These native sportsmen are remembered as local pioneers who brought pride to their mountain hometown, illustrating Ronco’s contribution to Italy’s sporting heritage.

Local Sports Facilities and Activities

Organized sports in Ronco Canavese center around a modest but important set of facilities. The main municipal sports area in Via Valprato (on the edge of the village) includes a small multi-purpose field and courts for several sports – a five-a-side football (calcetto) pitch, a tennis and volleyball court, a beach volleyball sand court, and the newly built pétanque/bocce terrain. In 2022, the town added the dedicated petanque court and announced plans to upgrade the whole complex (including the beach volley, tennis, and calcetto fields) with new surfaces and lighting. These facilities are open to residents and visitors and see the most use in summer, when many former residents return on holiday. Pick-up football matches and bocce games are common, and children make use of the playgrounds and open spaces for outdoor play.

Every August, the community comes together for a five-a-side football tournament under the stars. For example, on 16 August 2024 Ronco hosted an evening calcetto tournament on the town field, open to all youth 14 and older, with 4 vs 4 matches and teams drawn on the spot. A small entry fee per team is collected, and the event is a festive night of sport and socializing for locals and vacationers alike. In addition to this annual tournament, the village Pro Loco (community club) integrates sports into local festivals. During the mid-August Ferragosto celebrations, the town organizes various sporting games: past programs have featured children’s races and sack-toss games, women’s football matches (e.g. an Italy vs. France friendly), the classic “scapoli vs. ammogliati” match between unmarried and married men, and even mixed-gender volleyball tournaments on the outdoor court. These lighthearted competitions, along with traditional events like the Alpini veterans’ parade and evening dances, are a cherished part of Ronco’s summer cultural calendar.

Outdoor Recreation and Alpine Sports

With its location inside the Gran Paradiso National Park, Ronco Canavese is a hub for outdoor recreation year-round. The village lies on the route of the long-distance Grande Traversata delle Alpi (GTA), serving as a stopping point for trekkers crossing the Piedmont Alps. From Ronco’s center (956 m) and its dozens of hamlets, marked trails lead to high pastures, alpine lakes, and mountain summits in every direction. In the adjacent Vallone di Forzo – a side valley within Ronco’s territory – hikers can stroll to scenic abandoned villages or undertake challenging ascents of peaks and glaciers. Notable climbs include the Torre di Lavina (3,308 m) and the Ciardoney Glacier, both accessible via routes starting near Ronco. These have long attracted experienced alpinists and are still frequented by mountaineers and backcountry skiers (the area is renowned for classic ski-mountaineering itineraries in winter). Ronco and the nearby hamlet of Piamprato also serve as staging points on the Grande Traversata del Gran Paradiso, a regional hiking loop. Park authorities and local guides offer guided excursions in summer, introducing visitors to Val Soana’s wildlife and traditions on foot. In winter, park guides or local associations organize snowshoe treks (ciaspolate) through the snowy forests – often ending with tastings of polenta or local cheese in a mountain hut. Beyond hiking and skiing, the Soana Valley caters to a variety of adventure sports. The rugged Soana and Forzo torrents allow seasonal kayaking and canoeing, and some sections of canyon have been used for canyoning descents. In cold winters, climbers can take on ice-climbing routes on frozen waterfalls in the valley (several ice falls are known training spots for climbers in Piedmont). Sport climbing on rock is also practiced in the area, and a small indoor climbing wall is available in a neighboring town for off-season training.

Mountain biking has seen growth thanks to new infrastructure: in 2017 a downhill MTB park opened at Piamprato (the upper valley, a few kilometers from Ronco), reactivating a long-defunct chairlift to serve bike trails. This Piamprato Bike Park offers lift-served downhill tracks – the first of its kind in Canavese – and operates in summer out of the local ski area. Together with cross-country ski trails and beginner ski slopes in winter (the small Pianeta Neve ski-lift at Piamprato is used as a family ski area and lesson slope), these outdoor facilities make the valley a year-round sports destination for nature enthusiasts.

Events and Sports Tourism

Throughout the year, Ronco Canavese hosts sporting events that blend competition, community, and tourism. In the warmer months, trail running competitions take advantage of the valley’s steep terrain and footpaths. One example is the Ronco–Nivolastro Vertical Run, a short but strenuous uphill race (2.5 km with ~450 m of elevation gain) that has been part of the “Valle Soana Trail Circus” series. In its 2024 edition, despite a summer thunderstorm delaying the start, the Ronco–Nivolastro race still saw a strong turnout of competitors setting off from the town center. Another recent race is the Trail 827, named for the altitude of the village of Ingria (827 m). This event, held on Easter Monday, runs from Ingria to Ronco and back via mountain mule tracks connecting alpine hamlets. The Trail 827 is part of the Canavese UISP trail-running championship and is organized in collaboration with Ingria’s municipality. Such races draw runners from across the region and showcase the valley’s trails; prizes and post-race meals (often featuring local dishes) turn them into festive gatherings. Sports are also woven into local festivals and tourism initiatives. During summer fêtes, as noted, the Pro Loco organizes playful tournaments (football, volleyball, children’s games) to entertain residents and visitors. In winter, a popular community event is the “Ciaspolenta”, which combines a group snowshoe hike with a communal polenta lunch. For instance, in February 2025 a ciaspolata trek was held to Pian dell’Azaria (1,650 m) in Gran Paradiso Park, followed by a polenta feast; the route led participants through an alpine landscape described by writer Mario Rigoni Stern as “one of the most beautiful places in the world”. Such events highlight how sports and traditional culture go hand-in-hand in Ronco – trekking through nature is often punctuated by social meals, music, or folklore, creating an experience that is both athletic and cultural. Increasingly, sports-based tourism is seen as a strategy for the valley’s economic and social revitalization. A notable example is the creation of a tourist fishing reserve on the Soana’s tributary stream in Forzo. In 2018 a group of seven local young people, with support from the municipality, leased a pristine stretch of the Torrente Forzo to establish a regulated angling reserve. The idea was “to leverage what the territory offers – even the streams – to boost tourism and give lifeblood to a valley at risk of depopulation”. The reserve, managed by the amateur association “Li Fòsatin” (formed by families and youth of Val Forzo), has been a success: on opening day it drew fishermen from all over Piedmont, as well as from Lombardy and Liguria. Li Fòsatin is also known for organizing the valley’s annual beer fest, blending recreation with local culture. In a press interview, the project’s founders explained that their goal was both to share their passion for fishing and to “make the reserve a real tourist resource within the valley’s outdoor activities”, while also giving locals an “excuse to get together one more time than usual” through sport. This initiative, alongside the development of the bike park and other outdoor attractions, exemplifies how Ronco Canavese ties sport to tourism, health, and education. By encouraging active lifestyles and environmental education (many activities are done in cooperation with the national park’s educational programs), the community uses sports to promote well-being. At the same time, these efforts sustain local businesses and foster pride of place. In summary, sports in Ronco are not only leisure — they are a pillar of the town’s culture and a key to its sustainable future, keeping the mountain community vibrant and connected to its natural heritage.

Tourism and Attractions

Ronco Canavese's stunning natural setting and quaint alpine character make it an appealing destination for nature lovers and cultural tourists. Key attractions and activities include:

Historic Churches and Shrines

The Parish Church of San Giusto Martire in the main village is a centerpiece of Ronco. Founded in medieval times (independent since 1280) and later rebuilt in the 1800s, it features traditional stone architecture with a stone-column portico and lòsè roof (stone slab roofing typical of alpine buildings). In the locality of Castellaro, the Santuario Madonna del Crest is especially notable. This sanctuary, dedicated to Our Lady of the Snows and to emigrants, has a dramatic outdoor sculpture tableau: the Virgin Mary with outstretched arms watches over a glassblower and a coppersmith at work, while a mourning woman in Val Soana folk dress kneels beside them. Carved around are the tools of bygone local trades (farming, craftsmanship, mining), and inside the sanctuary an altar with 68 small lights honors each emigrant glassworker from the valley who lost his life abroad. The Santuario is a moving tribute to the valley's people and offers a panoramic view of the village below. Scattered in the surrounding hamlets are several charming chapels (such as the 17th-century Chiesa di San Rocco in a forest clearing, or the tiny chapel of San Grato in Nivolastro), each with its own history and often open to visitors during the summer festivals.

Gran Paradiso National Park

Ronco Canavese lies on the Piedmont side of the Gran Paradiso National Park (Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso), Italy's oldest national park. A large portion of the commune's territory falls within this protected area making it a prime spot for outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy hiking and trekking on a network of trails that lead to alpine lakes, mountain passes, and wildlife observation points. Popular hikes include routes to the Lasinetto Valley (with the pretty green Lago Lasin), the Forzo Valley (a wild side valley rich in waterfalls), and higher ascents like the trail towards Cima Rosta (a panoramic peak ~2,700 m overlooking the valley). Wildlife watching is a major draw: the park is home to Alpine ibex, chamois, marmots, and golden eagles, and it's not uncommon to spot these animals in the upper Val Soana. In Ronco's main village, the National Park authority operates a Visitors’ Center titled “Traditions and Biodiversity in a Fantastic Valley”, This modern exhibit (housed in a wooden chalet on Via Alpetta) showcases the intact ecosystems and rich biodiversity of Val Soana and also highlights local culture – including displays of traditional tools and crafts. It even provides space for local artisans and producers to demonstrate their techniques and sell products to visitors. The center is family-friendly and provides maps, guidance, and historical insight, serving as an excellent starting point for exploring the park.

Natural Landmarks

Natural Landmarks – Nature enthusiasts will find several interesting sites around Ronco. Near the village entrance in Castellaro, the Soana stream has carved the “Marmitte dei Giganti” (Giants’ Kettles) – smooth cylindrical potholes in the rock formed by glacial meltwaters. These rock pools and chutes create little waterfalls (especially in spring) and can be admired via a short walking path. Close by is the historic Copper Forge (Fucina del Rame), which is not only a cultural monument but also part of the landscape – visitors can see the restored stone building and learn how water from the Soana was diverted via channels to power the massive water hammer and bellows of the forge. Guided tours or informational panels describe the forge's operation and its importance to the community. For panoramic views, visitors can hike or drive to the upper hamlets like Convento, Bosco or Forzo, where traditional stone houses and larch forests create a storybook alpine scene. Above the hamlet of Pezzetto, a short trail leads to the “Ponte degli Innamorati” (Lovers’ Bridge), a quaint wooden footbridge with a heart-shaped art installation – a popular photo spot for couples and a symbol of local community love. Throughout the area, bivouac huts and mountain refuges (such as Bivacco Revelli or Rifugio Ciavanassa) offer trekkers shelter and a taste of high-mountain adventure. In winter, snowshoeing and ski-mountaineering routes open up, while in summer the more adventurous can try rock climbing on granite cliffs or kayaking in certain river stretches of Val Soana. Though Ronco is off the main tourist circuit, those who venture here are rewarded with authentic Alpine experiences – pristine nature, heritage sites, and the warm hospitality of a community proud of its roots.

Infrastructure & Transportation

Reaching and moving around Ronco Canavese involves mountain roads but is manageable with planning. The village is connected to the rest of Piedmont by the Provincial Road that winds up the Soana Valley from Pont Canavese (the gateway town where the Soana stream meets the larger Orco valley). From Turin or Ivrea, drivers typically reach Pont Canavese and then follow about 20 km of scenic, winding road climbing north to Ronco. The road is paved and maintained year-round, but in winter it can be snowy or icy, sometimes requiring tire chains. Public transportation is limited but exists: one can take a train or bus from Turin to Pont Canavese (Pont is served by the Canavesana railway and regional buses). From Pont Canavese, a regional bus service runs up the Soana Valley to Ronco Canavese. This bus operates year-round with a few trips per day (more in summer), ensuring the village is not completely isolated for those without cars. In the peak summer months, the bus route may extend beyond Ronco to the higher hamlets such as Valprato and Piamprato for hikers, while in winter the terminus is usually Ronco. There is no railway directly to Ronco, and the nearest highway exit is many kilometers away, emphasizing its remote setting.

Reaching and moving around Ronco Canavese involves mountain roads but is manageable with planning. The village is connected to the rest of Piedmont by the Provincial Road that winds up the Soana Valley from Pont Canavese (the gateway town where the Soana stream meets the larger Orco valley). From Turin or Ivrea, drivers typically reach Pont Canavese and then follow about 20 km of scenic, winding road climbing north to Ronco. The road is paved and maintained year-round, but in winter it can be snowy or icy, sometimes requiring tire chains. Public transportation is limited but exists: one can take a train or bus from Turin to Pont Canavese (Pont is served by the Canavesana railway and regional buses). From Pont Canavese, a regional bus service runs up the Soana Valley to Ronco Canavese. This bus operates year-round with a few trips per day (more in summer), ensuring the village is not completely isolated for those without cars. In the peak summer months, the bus route may extend beyond Ronco to the higher hamlets such as Valprato and Piamprato for hikers, while in winter the terminus is usually Ronco. There is no railway directly to Ronco, and the nearest highway exit is many kilometers away, emphasizing its remote setting.

In terms of services, Ronco has the essential municipal facilities concentrated around its small center. The Town Hall (Municipio) is on the main street and houses administrative offices for civil services. There is a postal office, a pharmacy, and a primary health outpost (for basic medical consultations), but hospital services are located in larger towns (the closest hospital is in Ivrea, about 40 km away). Recognizing the challenges of an elderly, dispersed population, a pilot project “P.A.S.S.I. Montani” now provides community nursing: professional nurses periodically visit Ronco and its frazioni to offer in-home healthcare and check-ups for the elderly. This service helps residents who cannot easily travel to distant clinics. The village also has a primary school, although with very few children, classes have at times been combined or held in neighboring towns if student numbers are too low. For higher education (middle/high school), students commute to larger towns (with weekly boarding or daily bus rides).

Notable People

Giovanni Modesto Destefanis (1785–1852)– Politician and Physician

Giovanni Modesto Destefanis was born in Ronco Canavese in 1785 and became an influential 19th-century Italian politician and physician. He was a pupil of the famous doctor Michele Buniva and went to England to study the new smallpox vaccination techniques, becoming one of the first vaccinators in Italy – particularly serving the remote Orco and Soana valleys in Piedmont. Destefanis took part in the liberal Risorgimento uprisings of 1821, which led to his exile in Switzerland, France, and Spain during the backlash against the revolts. After returning to Piedmont, he joined the revolutions of 1848 and was elected as a deputy to the Parliament of the Kingdom of Sardinia (the Italian pre-unification state) in its 3rd and 4th legislatures. His early advocacy of vaccination and his role in the struggle for Italian liberal reforms mark him as an important historical figure from Ronco Canavese, remembered for both his medical and political contributions.

Piero Martin (born 1899) – Footballer for Torino F.C.

Piero Martin was born in Ronco Canavese in 1899 and became a professional footballer, playing as a right-back in the 1920s. He is best known for his years with Torino F.C., where he was part of the squad during a successful era for the club. Martin was nicknamed “Martin I” because he was the eldest of four brothers (Cesare, Dario, and Edmondo were nicknamed II, III, IV) who all played for Torino. After retiring from football, he worked as an engineer in Pinerolo, but in Ronco Canavese he is remembered as a local sports pioneer who reached the top tier of Italian football. His connection to Ronco is as a native son who went on to contribute to a championship-winning Torino team, bringing pride to his mountain hometown.

Osvaldo Picchiottino (born 1932) – Alpine Skier and Coach

Osvaldo Picchiottino, born in Ronco Canavese in December 1932, is a former alpine ski racer who gained prominence in the 1950s. He was a versatile skier (competing in downhill, giant slalom, slalom, and combined events) and achieved his greatest success by winning the Italian national title in slalom in 1961. Picchiottino represented Italy in major international ski events of his era – for example, he placed 7th in giant slalom at a 1958 Grand Prix race in Val d’Isère – although he did not participate in the Olympics or World Championships. In the 1960s, after retiring from competition, he became a coach for the Italian women's national alpine ski team, sharing his expertise with the next generation. Picchiottino's career highlights and his role as a national coach make him a notable sports figure from Ronco Canavese, illustrating the village's contribution to Italy's winter sports heritage.

Maria Ida Viglino – Educator and Cultural Leader

Maria Ida Viglino was an educator and political figure originally from Forzo, a hamlet of Ronco Canavese. Active during the mid-20th century, Viglino first distinguished herself by taking part in the World War II Resistance against Fascism. After the war she became a highly respected teacher and school headmistress, and she emerged as a champion of local culture and minority language rights. Viglino was among the earliest advocates for greater regional autonomy in the neighboring Aosta Valley – a region with French-Provençal linguistic heritage – and she served as a regional government assessor in Valle d’Aosta, focusing on education and cultural identity. Known for being a “strenuous defender of autonomism” (regional self-government) and the protection of linguistic minorities, Maria Ida Viglino's legacy has been honored in Ronco Canavese by dedicating the local library in her name. Her life's work bridges Ronco Canavese and the broader region, highlighting the area's contribution to cultural preservation and education in Italy.

Local Government

Local Government & Services Ronco Canavese is an independent comune (municipality), though it collaborates closely with neighboring villages due to its small size. It is part of the Metropolitan City of Turin and since 2010 has been grouped in the Unione Montana Valli Orco e Soana (a mountain municipalities union) which coordinates resources and services across the Orco and Soana valleys.

The municipal government is led by a mayor (Sindaco) and a small council. As of the latest elections in 2021, the Mayor of Ronco Canavese is Lorenzo Giacomino, who succeeded long-time mayor Danilo Crosasso. The local administration handles typical duties like maintaining roads, managing waste collection, and promoting tourism, albeit with a tiny staff. Given limited tax revenue from the small population, the town benefits from regional and EU rural development funds for many projects (infrastructure upgrades, cultural preservation, etc.).

Ronco was formerly part of the now-defunct Comunità Montana Alto Canavese and continues those cooperative efforts through the new Unione Montana, which has offices in Pont Canavese and supports economic and social initiatives in the valley.Residents of Ronco have access to basic public services that belie the village's size. The commune operates a civic library (recently rejuvenated as the Maria Ida Viglino Library), which was reopened as a community project to serve as a cultural hub with books, internet access, and a venue for workshops. There is also a small multipurpose hall and theater (Don Lorenzo Babando Hall) used for community meetings, film screenings, and the occasional theatrical performance, often involving local amateur groups or schoolchildren.

Emergency services (fire brigade, mountain rescue) are coordinated with nearby towns; a volunteer fire station exists in the valley and the Alpine rescue service covers hiking emergencies via a base in Cogne or Locana. Policing is handled by the Carabinieri station in Pont Canavese, though Ronco itself is very peaceful with low crime.One remarkable modern initiative is Ronco Canavese's participation in the Green Community “Sinergie in Canavese”, a program for ecological transition in the Canavese mountain areas. Started in 2022 and backed by national recovery funds, this project unites several upland communes (including Ronco) to develop sustainable management of resources, renewable energy, eco-tourism, and forest conservation. Under this umbrella, the Fervores energy community was established, which is the first Renewable Energy Community in the Canavese valleys where local institutions and citizens co-own renewable energy production and share the benefits.

The foundation for Fervores was formed in December 2024 and is headquartered at the Unione Montana offices, signifying a strong commitment by Ronco's administration to innovation and self-sufficiency in energy. Additionally, the municipality has invested in improving connectivity (as noted, fiber broadband) and supporting small entrepreneurship (there's even a “GIOVANI” business competition project to encourage youth initiatives).Community welfare is also a focus: social services like elderly care, disability assistance, and youth recreation are coordinated at the inter-municipal level, ensuring Ronco's residents receive support despite the distance from urban centers. In summary, local governance in Ronco Canavese is proactive and community-oriented, striving to keep this mountain village viable and vibrant. The town's leadership and residents work together on everything from organizing festivals to securing grants for development, balancing the preservation of tradition with the need for modern services to improve quality of life. Through such efforts, Ronco Canavese continues to adapt to contemporary challenges while cherishing its identity as a close-knit Alpine community in the heart of a beautiful natural park.

External links

• http://www.vallesoana.it