Ossimo

Hello Ossimo: a journey to discover the Municipality of Val Camonica

If you're looking for a peaceful and nature-filled destination, Ossimo might be the right place for you. This municipality in the Val Camonica, in the province of Brescia, has a population of about 1460 and can be reached via the provincial roads that lead from Malegno to Borno.

The enchanting territory of Ossimo

The territory of Ossimo confirms its beauty through its borders that overlook other municipalities of rare splendor. To the east it borders with Malegno and Cividate Camuno, to the north with Lozio and Schilpario, to the west with Borno, and to the south with Piancogno.

The municipality extends on the northern slope of the Trobiolo valley (Borno), the so-called "Altopiano del Sole". Ossimo is made up of two inhabited areas: Ossimo Inferiore, further downstream, and Ossimo Superiore, further upstream; there is also another small hamlet between Ossimo Superiore and Lozio called Creelone (in the Camuno dialect "Creelu). A portion of the municipal territory extends beyond the watershed with the Lanico valley between the municipalities of Borno and Lozio, reaching the border with the Province of Bergamo (municipality of Schilpario). The border passes exactly on the peak of Mount Sossino (2398 m), the highest summit in the municipality of Ossimo.

Ossimo: between nature, history and culture of Val Camonica

A dive into the history of Ossimo

It's not just nature that makes this municipality an interesting place; its history has ancient roots that date back a long time. In the records of the Santa Giulia monastery in Brescia, a document from 950 recalls the name "Ussium", probably associated with Ossimo.

According to Gabriele Rosa, an Italian archaeologist and historian, the ancient furnace in the locality of "Corni" would have provided brick material in Roman times. In 1309, the Bishop of Brescia, Federico Maggi, invests iure feudi with the rights of tithes in the territories of Ossimo Guglielmo and Giovanni da Breno. In 1670, the plague struck the area severely and the plague victims were taken to the Pat lazaretto, where a chapel was built to remember the scourge.

A historical heritage to discover

The territory of Ossimo also contains an interesting historical heritage. In particular, it is possible to admire the families who obtained the title of local feudal lords of the settlement, such as the Ronchi and the Federici.

The coat of arms and flag of Ossimo were granted by royal decree on November 16, 1933.

Events and activities

In such a suggestive place, it's not difficult to find interesting events and activities to do. For example, Ossimo hosts numerous events related to Camuno folklore and the culture of the valley, such as the Sagra del sanguinaccio, the Sagra del cinghiale and the Festa di San Giovanni. In addition, many outdoor activities are possible: walks in the woods, hikes on the surrounding mountains, cycling routes, and sport fishing.

Conclusions

Ossimo is a place to visit for those looking for peace and natural beauty. Its ancient history and its historical symbols, such as the coat of arms and flag, complete the picture of this municipality in the Val Camonica. Moreover, it's easy to find interesting events and activities that allow you to discover its beauty in a complete way.

Chiara Russo
Wrote by Chiara Russo
Updated Tuesday, Jun 14, 2022