Maissana between Jasper, Nature and History

Maissana brings together nature observation, archaeology and the area's long-established history within a closely connected thematic setting. If you would like to combine landscapes with a distinctive geological and cultural past, you will find several different ways to explore them here: from wine-red jasper rock beds and protected river habitats to churches, a medieval building and small exhibitions.

Jasper Landscape and Views

A notable viewpoint is the Fontana Sacrata on the Grande Anello del Benessere. It is a lookout point on the watershed between the Vara River and the Borsa stream. From there, you can see the Valle Lagorara archaeological site and the wine-red jasper rock beds. This reveals a landscape in which geological material and human use appear directly connected, without the individual themes having to be conflated.

Archaeology from the Copper Age to the Present

The open-pit jasper mine in Valle Lagorara was in operation during the Copper Age, between 3500 and 2600 BC. The Esposizione di minerali e reperti archeologici explains the individual steps of jasper processing through a series of panels. The exhibition also includes a mineralogical section with around sixty specimens from the surrounding area. Those interested in early raw-material extraction, rocks and artisanal processing can therefore view this development from several perspectives.

Natural Areas along the Vara and Borsa

The SIC of the Torrente Borsa, which extends as far as the Vara River, protects the habitat of the freshwater crab (Potamon fluviatile) along the river. The SIC of Passo del Bocco also includes the municipality of Maissana. This area preserves evidence of human presence dating back to the Middle Paleolithic. In the village of Giandriali there is also a holly tree (Ilex aquifolium) estimated to be around 350 years old. The tree has a circumference of 120 cm and is 16 metres tall.

Churches and Buildings in Maissana

Maissana is home to the 18th-century church of San Bartolomeo Apostolo. It contains frescoes, wooden statues and a 16th-century crucifix. The building known as „La prigione dei Fieschi“, dating from 1200, is also located in the village. The Oratorio di Santa Maria Maddalena in Maissana dates from the 16th century. Together, these three buildings illustrate different historical layers of the village, from medieval structures to sacred art of the early modern period and the 18th century.

Practical Starting Points for Your Visit

The Museo territorio Valle Lagorara is located at Via Macalle' in 19010 Maissana (SP). For visitors to the archaeological area, the Centro di Accoglienza in Santa Maria is normally the first point of contact. At Parco Avventura Val di Vara, admission tickets can be purchased at the entrance and online. The Centro Turistico Sportivo di Tavarone has a swimming pool, a tennis court and a football pitch. In addition to natural and cultural attractions, the surrounding area covered here therefore offers specific facilities for a range of day-trip interests.

Other Places for Orientation

Vernazza, Piano di Follo, Bracelli, Calice Al Cornoviglio, Colombiera-Molicciara, Brugnato, Zignago and Carrodano.

For the higher-level travel overview: La Spezia.