THE PROPOSAL
There’s a special trail winding through pastures and clearings on the slopes of Mount Vallecetta… and it’s ready to tell you a very ancient story! The Alpini of Piatta are waiting for you at the Palueta hairpin bend to guide you on a small but grand adventure in search of the coppelle—mysterious carvings left on the rocks by people who lived thousands of years ago.
Together with the Alpini, we’ll walk through nature, listen to fascinating stories, and search for these engraved stones, just like little explorers of the past!
WHAT ARE COPPELLE?
They may look like simple little holes in the rock… but in reality, they are very ancient engravings, patiently and skillfully carved using harder stones. You can find them on large boulders, and no one knows for sure why they were made: were they magical symbols? Did they serve a purpose? Or were they just marks left to tell a story?
Some researchers believe they date back as far as the Neolithic period—more than 5,000 years ago! And the amazing thing is: they’re still there, hidden in the woods, waiting to be discovered by curious eyes and adventurous hearts.
LOCATION The trail is located between 1,700 and 1,900 meters above sea level, along the slopes of Mount Vallecetta, and extends for about 7 km. It is well marked with signs and information boards placed near the rocks, thanks to the work of the Alpini of Piatta and the CMAV. The trail was inaugurated in the summer of 2005.
TARGET AUDIENCE: The hike is suitable for everyone. Hiking boots are strongly recommended.
FREE ACTIVITY – RESERVATION APPRECIATED
