Leonardo da Vinci

Did you know?

Did Leonardo da Vinci pass through Prato San Pietro?

Few visitors realize that the small village of Prato San Pietro, where our accommodation is located today, was mentioned by one of history's greatest geniuses.

In the Codex Atlanticus (folio 573r-v), Leonardo da Vinci wrote:

"Li edifizi della vena del rame e dello arzento, presso a una terra detta Pra' Santo Petro, e vene di ferro e cose fantastiche."

In English:

"The mining works of copper and silver near a place called Prato San Pietro, together with veins of iron and extraordinary things."

At that time, Valsassina was one of the most important mining regions in northern Italy. Its mountains supplied iron, copper, silver and other minerals that supported blacksmiths, craftsmen and workshops for centuries.

Although there is no definitive record of Leonardo's exact route, many historians consider it highly likely that he passed through Prato San Pietro while exploring the area. The ancient road that crosses the village — today's Via Roma, directly in front of our accommodation — historically connected Cortenova, Cortabbio, Vimogno and the inner Valsassina, making it a natural route for anyone studying the mines and surrounding landscape.

More than five centuries later, the scenery remains remarkably unchanged. The crystal-clear streams flowing down from the Grigna mountains, the Pioverna River, the forests and the peaceful atmosphere of the valley still make it easy to imagine the landscape that fascinated Leonardo.

Walking through Prato San Pietro is more than visiting a charming Alpine village; it is experiencing a place that inspired one of the greatest observers of nature the world has ever known. Perhaps that is what makes this corner of Valsassina truly unforgettable.