Hidden among the majestic mountains and picturesque valleys of the Alto Oltrepò Pavese lies a cultural and scenic treasure waiting to be discovered: the Lombardy Ecomuseum - The Grain in Grass. This enchanting corner of Lombardy, enclosed between the regions of Piedmont, Emilia and Liguria, is a concentration of history, traditions and natural beauty that fascinates and enchants visitors.
Discovering the Municipalities United by the Ecomuseum
Four little jewels make up the crown of the Eco-museum: Santa Margherita Staffora, Menconico, Brallo di Pregola and Romagnese. Each of these municipalities brings with it a wealth of history and culture intertwined with the land and local traditions, creating a unique mosaic.
History and Peasant Traditions
The Ecomuseo Lombardo - Il Grano in Erba is more than just a museum; it is a journey back in time through past eras, where life revolved around the seasons, working the fields and producing food. Mills such as the Pellegro Mill in Casanova Staffora, the Spalla Mill in Menconico and the Castana Mill in Romagnese bear witness to the importance of grinding wheat for the survival of local communities.
The farming museums in the area allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the agricultural and craft traditions of the area, offering an authentic glimpse of rural life in the past.
Unspoilt Nature and Panoramic Trails
But the Ecomuseum is not just about preserving cultural heritage; it also offers the opportunity to explore the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding nature. The Pietra Corva Alpine Garden is a paradise for flora lovers, offering a variety of unique and extraordinary species. The Monte Alpe nature reserve, on the other hand, is the realm of wildlife and spectacular views, where visitors can fully immerse themselves in the tranquillity of nature.
The Salt Road and the Brigands‘ Trail: A Journey into the Past
Among the many attractions offered by the Ecomuseum, the Via del Sale (Salt Road) and the Sentiero dei Briganti (Trail of the Brigands) stand out. The Via del Sale (Salt Road), an ancient trade route that connected inland towns with sea ports, is a journey back in time through breathtaking views and enchanted medieval villages. The Path of the Brigands, on the other hand, reveals the secrets of the mysterious bandits who once populated these mountains, offering exciting adventures and evocative legends.
Objectives of the Ecomuseum: Conservation and Community Involvement
The Ecomuseo Lombardo - Il Grano in Erba is not only a place of conservation, but also a centre of community involvement. The main objective is to enhance and preserve the unique cultural and landscape heritage of this region by actively involving the local community in sharing their knowledge, experiences and stories related to the area.
Through exhibitions, events and thematic routes, the Eco-museum encourages the discovery of the area, creating a deeper bond between the community and its environment. It is a place where past and present meet, where traditions live on and are passed on to future generations.
A Treasure to Discover
Ultimately, the Ecomuseo Lombardo - Il Grano in Erba is a hidden jewel waiting to be discovered. With its rich history, deep-rooted traditions and the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding nature, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience to anyone who has the pleasure of visiting it. It is a place where time seems to slow down, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the magic of a fascinating past and discover the timeless beauty of this fascinating region.
