Valnegra
Welcome to Valnegra: a journey through history and nature
Welcome to Valnegra, a small town located in the upper Brembana Valley, just a few kilometers north of Bergamo. With its 209 inhabitants, Valnegra is a quiet and peaceful place, immersed in the unspoiled nature of the Orobie Alps.
The history of the village
The origins of Valnegra date back to the time of the barbarian invasions, when people fled to remote places to escape the raids of conquering hordes. Here, the people of the nearby Valsassina took refuge and established the first stable colony. In the Middle Ages, the town reached its maximum splendor thanks to the production of charcoal, a activity that provided work and wealth to the community, so much so that Valnegra products crossed Italian borders. During this period, Valnegra became part of the Visconti family's feudo, who gave permission to kill a Guelph for every supporter of their faction.
In the sixteenth century, Valnegra became part of the Republic of Venice and was placed in charge of the administrative district of the "Brembana Valley beyond Goggia", which included all the municipalities of the upper valley. During this period, the town hosted a visit from Saint Carlo Borromeo. With the arrival of modernity, the economy of the town suffered a setback with the construction of the Via Priula, which crossed the valley without passing through Valnegra. As a consequence, the village began a process of emigration that lasted until today, although Valnegra had the merit of being the first municipality in the valley to have a building for teaching.
The fascist period and the recent tourist revival
In 1927, the fascist regime merged Valnegra with three other municipalities in the area into a single municipality called San Martino de' Calvi. Only in 1956, did the municipalities return to their original conformation. In the following years, the economy of the village suffered from the economic crisis and emigration, but in recent times tourism has given new vitality to the Valnegrese community, maintaining the essence of the town intact.
The coat of arms and the flag
The coat of arms and the flag of Valnegra were granted by decree of the President of the Republic in 1992. The shield contains the blue band as a symbol of the Valnegra stream, while the fess and the star indicate respectively Mount Sole and Culmine, the mountains that overlook the town center.
Welcome to Valnegra
Valnegra is a magical place, immersed in nature, which embodies centuries of history and tradition. The mountains that surround the village invite you to venture out on hikes and walks, breathing the pure air of the Alps. The town also offers a breathtaking panoramic view, with its ancient stone houses and narrow alleys, where time seems to have stopped. Thanks to the recent tourist revival, Valnegra has become an ideal destination for those seeking a vacation of peace and nature. Come and discover this pearl of the Orobie Alps, where time seems to have stopped. We look forward to welcoming you with open arms!
