Bienno, in the heart of the Valle Camonica, is a village that seems to be suspended in time. The stone houses, hidden courtyards, and cobbled streets tell us of centuries of daily living and the work of the craftsman. Wrought iron work is still the main activity here. The sound of the anvil being struck is still heard in the streets, the mark of a tradition that has never been interrupted. 

Strolling through the streets means entering a village that has preserved its identity intact, and for which it has received two important awards: the Orange Flag from the Italian Touring Club, and inclusion in the list of Italy’s most beautiful villages. These awards are reflected in the warm welcome offered by the inhabitants and the authentic atmosphere that you breathe in with every step.

The centre of the village offers elegant palazzos and spaces dedicated to art:  Palazzo Simoni Fè, now home to an art gallery, Palazzo Francesconi Rebajoli, and Casa Valiga, or Casa degli Artisti with its exhibitions and workshops that showcase contemporary creativity. The Parish Church of Santi Faustino e Giovita, with its frescos, and the Hermitage of Santissimi Pietro e Paolo, immersed in the countryside just outside the village, are also well worth a visit and offer splendid panoramic views.

The woods around the village light up with red and gold in autumn, while the scent of wood and chestnuts will accompany your walks. The trails setting out from the centre offer views of the valley’s foliage, with routes that will take you to the chestnut grove, Castagneto di Prestine, ideal for walking on the crisp leaves, in a unique atmosphere. Trails and woods lead to refuges and valley passes that are perfect for lovers of quiet walks in a peaceful autumnal setting.

And to conclude your visit, the local cuisine, with its casoncelli filled pasta, polenta, local cheeses, and spongada, a typical cake made in the valley, star dishes, to be savoured with a glass of red wine or accompanied by tea made with mountain herbs.

Bienno in autumn is an all-round experience: history, nature, and crafts all come together in a village that invites you to stay, breathe in the atmosphere, and savour the slow rhythm of the valley.