Foresto
Foresto: a village immersed in nature
Foresto is a hamlet of Bussoleno, in the province of Turin, located about 2 km from the center of the capital. Originally, Foresto was an autonomous municipality known as "Foresto di Susa", but in 1928 it was incorporated into the municipality of Bussoleno. Today, Foresto has a population of about 500 residents and a large number of second homes. It also has a state elementary school.
The history of Foresto
Foresto di Susa was an autonomous municipality until 1928. The ISTAT code of the abolished municipality was "001827", and the cadastral code (valid until 1983) was "D699". The quarries of Foresto were famous for the marbles used for the construction of the palaces and the Duomo of Turin.
The Orrido di Foresto
One of the main points of interest in Foresto is the natural reserve of the Orrido di Foresto and the Station of Juniperus oxycedrus of Crotte San Giuliano. It is a very narrow and long gorge no more than 500 meters long, where the Rocciamelone (Lamarre) stream flows. The Orrido di Foresto is a place of great natural beauty, where it is possible to admire the local wildlife, including the Apennine wolf and the golden eagle. The path that winds through the Orrido di Foresto is suitable for experienced walkers and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Mountaineering and hiking
More generally, Foresto is a perfect starting point for mountaineering and hiking enthusiasts, as it allows you to reach the summit of Mount Rocciamelone. There is also an excellent rock gym and several ferrata routes for climbing enthusiasts. One of the most beautiful hiking trails in the area is the Ginepri trail, an easy hike of about an hour that winds around the mountain above Foresto.
The Via Francigena
Foresto is also located on the historic route of the Via Francigena coming from Susa (Italy) and heading to Bussoleno, which corresponds to the current via San Rocco. The Via Francigena is an ancient medieval road that connects Canterbury to Rome and has a strong cultural and religious connotation that makes it an increasingly popular destination among pilgrims from all over the world.
Conclusions
Foresto is a village immersed in nature, offering numerous hiking trails, climbing, and outdoor activities. The Orrido di Foresto is a unique point of interest and represents one of the main attractions of the area. Being also part of the famous Via Francigena, Foresto is increasingly visited by pilgrims from all over the world, interested in walking the paths that ancient travelers have followed for centuries.
