The Murunè: the centuries-old mulberry tree of Ponte in Valtellina, between peasant history and local identity

📍 Where to find the Murunè

The Murunè is located in Ponte in Valtellina, in a quiet courtyard next to the Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola, on Via Sant'Ignazio. It is easily reachable on foot, in the heart of the historical center. A perfect stop during a walk in the village.

• 🚗 By car: parking available near the historical center.
• 🚌 By bus: line from Sondrio with a stop in the village center.
• 👟 Recommended walking path for those who want to explore the beauty of the village.

🌳 A tree that endures time

Embedded between the stone walls of a quiet courtyard, this centuries-old mulberry (Morus alba) is known to everyone by the name of “Murunè”. It is not just a plant but a true identity symbol for Ponte in Valtellina.

The Murunè is one of the monumental trees of Lombardy, officially recorded for its age, size, and historical-cultural value. According to estimates, it is around 600 years old, making it one of the oldest mulberries in the region.

🍃 Why is it important?

In the 19th century, but even earlier, the mulberry was a common presence in mountain villages: it was planted near houses to produce silkworm leaves, a fundamental food for sericulture, a very common activity also in Valtellina.

People would gather around the mulberry tree, socialize, and take breaks during fieldwork. It was a point of reference, a symbol of work, land, and roots. The Murunè, in particular, has been passed down from generation to generation, and it is still well cared for by the local community today.

👀 What to see

The Murunè is set in a fascinating context:

• It is located next to the beautiful Church of St. Ignatius, built in the 17th century and linked to the former Jesuit college.
• It is near the Municipal Library, the Middle School, and the Ethnographic Museum of Ponte, another recommended stop for those who want to learn more about peasant life and local culture.

🌿 Why visit it

The Murunè is not just any attraction. It is a piece of living memory, a tangible sign of the village's history and its people. It is a tree that speaks of work, family, and tradition.

If you pass through Ponte in Valtellina, take a few minutes to find it and enjoy its shade. You will feel like you are diving into a distant but still vibrant time.

The Murunè is not just a tree. It is a piece of peasant history that endures over time, a living link with the agricultural past of Ponte in Valtellina. A discreet but significant presence, to be observed with respect and curiosity. Today it represents a visible and living memory of a world that no longer exists, but has left deep marks on the landscape and the people.