Sorisole between Canto Alto, Nature and History

Sorisole between Plain and Mountain

Sorisole brings together different landscape areas within a compact geographical setting. The area stretches from the interhill plain of Petosino to the 1,146-metre summit of Canto Alto, with an elevation difference of around 850 metres. The transition from the interhill plain to Canto Alto defines Sorisole’s spatial character; the historic town centre is also home to the Chiesa di San Pietro. Petosino lies at the lower edge, while Canto Alto is at the upper end of this elevation range. The natural and historical points of interest are located in different places: Canto Alto forms the summit area, while the Chiesa di San Pietro is situated in the historic town centre.

The third cross, which is still standing, is located at the summit of Canto Alto. It was inaugurated on 2 September 1979 and is 32.5 metres high. At Canto Alto, summit meadows, open habitats and the third cross are all found within the same mountain massif.

Rock, Watercourse and Summit Meadows

At the Forcella di Camblì, grey, green and red, densely laminated claystones and marls can be seen, interspersed with limestone layers. There are also thin layers of black bituminous claystones; the rock colours and layering occur directly alongside one another there. These rocks belong to the “Marne di Bruntino” formation.

For those interested in natural history, the Morla above Sorisole is particularly interesting from a geological perspective, as underground caves accompany its course. Several ridges of the Canto Alto mountain massif are characterised by open habitats and flower-rich summit meadows. The yellow-bellied toad (Bombina variegata) lays its eggs in temporary ponds and watering holes and prefers sunny bodies of water.

Hiking and Rock Climbing

The CAI Trail 220 from the Cappella del Pisgiù and CAI Trail 113 from the Forcella della Rua lead to the Forcella di Camblì. This provides two different starting points for choosing a route.

Hiking Trail 220 begins at the “Pisgiù” restaurant north of Sorisole. A narrow road leads there, and parking is available at the starting point. From there, Trail 220 continues to the Forcella di Camblì.

The “Cörna di Marte” crag is a rock face above Sorisole equipped for rock climbing. Those wishing to go rock climbing can do so at the “Cörna di Marte” crag, while the CAI trails lead to the Forcella di Camblì.

San Pietro and the History of the Town

The Chiesa di San Pietro is located in the historic town centre. The present-day church was begun in 1704, after the older church dedicated to the Madonna had been demolished. In 1739, the Chiesa di San Pietro was consecrated and elevated to the status of a provost church. The Chiesa Prepositurale di San Pietro apostolo e Sant’Alessandro martire is considered a museum of Bergamasque Baroque art.

A Local Tradition

The traditional “Lotto dei Morti” is one of Sorisole’s characteristic customs and is maintained by the parish communities. The parish communities preserve it as a local tradition.

More Destinations

More destinations: Monasterolo del Castello, Capriate San Gervasio, Scano Al Brembo, Bagnatica, Bonate Sotto, Fuipiano Valle Imagna, Bonate Sopra, San Pellegrino Terme.

Back to the main travel overview: Bergamo.