Stampa and Borgonovo
the villages of Giacometti's family
In Stampa, near the Maira River, a large patrician home, built in 1581, houses the valley museum Ciäsa Granda. Here you can learn about the flora, fauna and geology of the valley as well as catch a glimpse of what life was like for earlier inhabitants. The Giacometti-Varlin room exhibits a variety of the renowned artists' works.
Not far from the museum, is the atelier of the sculptor and artist Alberto Giacometti.
In the nearby village of Coltura, one can visit the Palazzo Castelmur. The northern part of this imposing building dates back to 1723. Baron Giovanni Castelmur built the southern part of the structure from 1850-55. The Moorish Gothic style and the crenellated towers give the building a castle-like look. The magnificent garden adds to this grand image. The Palazzo Castelmur also houses the valley's historical archive.
A little further up the valley the quiet village of Borgonovo is located at 1027 meters (3370 ft). The main street is flanked by 17th and 18th century homes with small gardens and traditional cowsheds. The two-arched old stone bridge offers a lovely view of San Giorgio Church, which was rebuilt in 1694. The interior is decorated with a colorful stained glass window made by Augusto Giacometti. The Giacometti family is buried in San Giorgio's small cemetery.