Descrizione
WARNING: the stretch between via Piana and Pusdosso is not viable due to fallen trees. The access to Via Piana hamlet is anyway possible, but to complete the loop trail to other hamlets (Cornelli, Foppa, Pusdosso and Forcella) it is necessary to use the paved road or the path starting from Fondra on the main road just beyond the bar (18 August 2017).
The path called "Giro delle Contrade" develops along ancient connecting roads and wonderful mule tracks that allow you to reach the historical hamlets of Isola di Fondra located on the slopes of Torcola Mount.
The first settlements in these areas are dating back to 1200-1300. From a notarial deed on 1179 is testified the presence of a neighborhood at Forcella.
The ancient inhabitants of Fondra were dedicated to pastoralism and agriculture. In summer they mowed grass that, once dried, served as winter food for the animals.
Men harvested wood in autumn and during winter made the tools used to work in the meadows: the cages, the baskets, the rakes.
Women spun the sheep’s wool to make sweaters and socks.
Until the beginning of 1800 mining was an important economic resource. During the Venetian ruling, Fondra was an important mining center, with several iron and copper mines scattered in various places.
Mining work was done from October to May, because in the summer the excessive humidity and the waters streams made the tunnels impracticable. The ferrous material was brought downstream the valley, near Fondra village, where the forges produced nails and tools. The iron semi-finished products were sold on the main markets of northern Italy such as Genoa, Milan and Bergamo.
The village is surrounded by large forests of beech, walnut and chestnut trees that once provided oil and fruits to the inhabitants.
Topografia
