Val Camonica, what to do and see
Val Camonica is known worldwide for its extraordinary wealth of rock engravings: thanks to them, it became part of the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979, as the first Italian location, with over 180 sites across 24 towns. It is located in eastern Lombardy and is one of the largest valleys in the central Alps: covering an area of about 1,518 km² and home to 140,992 inhabitants, it stretches from the 1,883‑metre elevation of the Tonale Pass down to Lake Iseo, 90 kilometres further south. The valley is crossed by the River Oglio, Italy’s fifth longest river, which originates in Ponte di Legno from the meeting of the Narcanello and Frigidolfo streams, then forms Lake Iseo and finally flows into the River Po. The entire valley is marked by traces of human presence, from prehistory to the prese
Not to be missed
A valley with a millennia‑old history and unspoilt nature, with rock engravings, natural parks and ancient alpine villages.
Rock art
The earliest traces of human presence in Val Camonica date back more than 10,000 years, when, after the end of the last ice-age, the melting of the glacier made it possible for the first human communities to settle. The ancient Camuni left unique evidence behind: 300,000 petroglyphs, carvings engraved into rock and scattered throughout the valley, making it the largest rock‑art site in Europe. Today, 8 sites immersed in the Alpine landscape allow visitors to admire these engravings, though new discoveries may soon increase the number of archaeological parks. This journey into prehistory reveals petroglyphs depicting navigation, dance, warfare, agriculture, magic and everyday life. The significance of these testimonies earned Val Camonica a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Val Camonica’s giant benches
In Val Camonica there are 7 giant benches, each 2 metres high and 4 metres wide, placed in scenic and panoramic locations. These curious installations are part of the non‑profit Big Bench Project, created by designer Chris Bangle. The inventor aimed to support local communities and tourism by positioning his creations in places that are not only beautiful, but also reachable on foot, walking through villages and landscapes typical of the area. Today, the giant benches are a real attraction for families, couples and hiking enthusiasts.
Visit them all
The Brown bench in Paspardo
The Red bench in Edolo
The Pink bench in Incudine
The Blue bench in Darfo Boario Hot Springs
The Orange bench in Breno
The Brown bench in Capo di Ponte
The Green bench in Lozio
The history of Val Camonica beyond prehistory
In addition to its extraordinary wealth of rock engravings and invaluable archaeological heritage, Val Camonica preserves a remarkable historical and artistic legacy, evidenced by the traces left by Celts, Etruscans and Romans. Splendid churches, sanctuaries, hermitages, fortified villages and medieval castles still dot the landscape today, telling centuries of Alpine history and tradition.
Nature and culture
Val Camonica is also synonymous with sport and nature: a cutting‑edge ski area, hiking, trekking and bike trails in protected areas that cover 55% of the valley. Among these the Adamello Regional Park and the Stelvio National Park, provide countless opportunities for outdoor activities. Val Camonica also has numerous hot springs; mind and body can regain balance in the wellness centres in Pisogne, Angolo, Ponte di Legno and the Darfo Boario Hot springs. The area is home to outstanding dairy, wine and charcuterie traditions, with Silter, the valley’s famous aromatic cheese, mountain white wines and cured meats prepared, seasoned and aged according to traditional methods passed down through generations.
Explore the local area
