The small village of Bienno is located in the heart of Val Camonica, in Lombardia. A place that seems enchanted. Here time has stopped and history is alive and perceptible in its streets. Strategically located, on top of a hill, with Concarena and Presolanaa surrounding the area. We are located about 70 km from Brescia, in the Val Grigna, where the waters of the stream of the same name flow. This was of paramount importance in ancient times. Channeled at best, the waters generated enormous power. The name of the village derives from the canals of the place. Biennum is in fact the Latin term that identifies them. In the century, the waters were transported to the forges which employed hundreds of people.
The main activity of Bienno has always been the wrought iron work. The forges drew energy from hammers driven by water wheels. An entire system linked to the canals filled with water. It is no coincidence that the area is known as Valley of the Magli. The forges remained operational until the end of the 900s, representing one of the main sources of income for the citizens of the village.
Bienno what to see
The town is included among the most beautiful villages in Italy. The urban structure developed on the geometric grid of an ancient Roman foundation. Via Artigiani is crossed by the Vaso Re, which is an artificial canal that receives water from the Grigna stream. It is the seat of the most important forges, Fucina Museo and Mulino Museo, once the heart of local work.
Turning around the historic center you realize how fervent artistic activity is. This comes from metalworking. In the oldest area of the village you can admire numerous examples of the glorious medieval past of the village, such as the ADVANCED TOWER, which dates back to 1075, and the Morandini tower. They are both in the original nucleus of the town, at the time crucial defensive bastions, designed to protect the noble families who lived there.
Not to be missed is a visit to the Simoni Fè palace, among the most important residences of the village, which at the time welcomed a very ancient dynasty of counts. Today its destination has changed dramatically. The ground floor was donated to the municipality, which transformed it into a kindergarten and a public library. Nearby is the Francesconi Rabajoli palace. In the past they were two contiguous stately homes. There is talk of 1500. Later they were adapted to generate a single building. Inside it is possible to admire splendid frescoes attributed to the Fiamminghino. On the main square we find the church of Santa Maria Annunciata, dating back to the XNUMXth century. Its façade boasts exposed stone pillars and a Gothic-style rose window.
How to reach Bienno
Bienno is located 70 km from Brescia, approx. The village is located on the axis of the SS42, towards Edolo / Passo del Tonale, for those coming from the city or the lake. Those coming from the Upper Camonica Valley, on the other hand, will find it in the direction of Lake Iseo / Brescia. In addition to the car, it is possible to reach the nearby area of Esine by train, using the Brescia - Iseo - Edolo line.
What to eat
There are several dishes to try absolutely in Bienno, such as the casunsei, or rather stuffed ravioli seasoned with melted butter, cheese and sage. The dairy production of the territory is excellent, with milk from the malga. Typical of the area is polenta, to be served with meat and game dishes. Finally, the traditional dessert is the spongada, soft focaccia made of flour, butter, eggs, salt, sugar, milk and yeast.
Photo source: https://www.facebook.com/comunedibienno
