The oldest district, where time has stood still
Scarpatetti is the historic neighborhood of Sondrio, the one that has best maintained the authentic soul of the city.
Here the streets are narrow and steep, paved with old stones. The houses, made of local stone, stand close together, with wooden balconies and slate roofs that tell a story of a simple and industrious life.
Walking through Scarpatetti feels like going back in time: everything remains as it once was, without upheavals.
📚 What Scarpatetti is like
The structure of the neighborhood is typical of alpine regions: winding alleyways, stone arches, small inner courtyards.
The houses were inhabited by farmers, artisans, and winemakers who lived in close contact with both the city and the mountains.
It is immediately noticeable how every element was designed for the daily life of the past: balconies for drying grapes, common courtyards, elaborately worked portals.
🎨 What to see in Scarpatetti
- The Chapel of Madonna dell'Uva: a small shrine that houses a wooden statue of the Madonna with a bunch of grapes, a strong symbol for a land of vineyards.
- Castel Masegra: the castle that overlooks the neighborhood and can be reached by climbing up through Scarpatetti.
- Scarpatetti Arte: every summer the neighborhood comes alive with exhibitions, artistic installations, and cultural initiatives.
🕒 A bit of curiosity
The name "Scarpatetti" likely derives from "scarpata," due to the slope on which the neighborhood develops.
Once this area was inhabited by farmers, small artisans, and winemakers who cultivated the terraces still visible along the slope today.
Scarpatetti is one of the few remaining examples in Lombardy of an urban alpine village that has remained virtually intact.
🕼️ Why visit Scarpatetti
Scarpatetti is the ideal place for those who want to discover the authentic face of Sondrio, away from modern streets and traffic.
Here you can walk among original architectures, discover ancient details hidden among the stones, and admire panoramic views over the city and the valley.
It is a must-stop for anyone who loves photography, local history, and walks in a context rich in charm.
🚶♂️ How to get there
- On foot from the historic center: start from Piazza Quadrivio and climb up via Scarpatetti.
- By car: it’s best to park in the center and continue on foot.
📌 Useful information
- Where: Via Scarpatetti, Sondrio (SO)
- Access: free
- Recommended period: spring and summer, or during Scarpatetti Arte
