Al dì de la Bronza

The festival that welcomes the return from the pastures

In Valdidentro, a municipality in Alta Valtellina in the province of Sondrio, the end of summer has a precise ritual: the herds' return to the valley after months spent in the mountain pastures. Al dì de la Bronza was created to celebrate this moment, transhumance, and with it all the culture linked to the peasant world and livestock farming that has shaped the identity of this Alpine valley.

Transhumance takes centre stage

The heart of the day is the descent of the livestock: the animals, festively adorned with cowbells – the bronze that give the event its name – and the herders in traditional attire parade through the village streets to the Rasìn plain. It's a spectacle that takes you back in time, when the mountain calendar was marked by the rhythms of shepherding.

Crafts, games, and traditions

Around the parade, a rich programme of activities for all ages unfolds: themed educational workshops, re-enactments of ancient crafts and traditional games by the Valdidentro folk group and the Museum of Valfurva, wooden games, and many entertainment options. The crowning of the Regina della Bronza (Queen of the Bronza) and certificates for the herders seal the bond between the community and its farmers.

Mountain flavours

The gastronomic aspect is not forgotten, with specialities of the Valtellina tradition: sciatt and pizzoccheri to be enjoyed together, accompanied by local typical products. An opportunity to discover the cuisine of Valdidentro and Alta Valtellina in a genuine and convivial setting.

An event for the whole valley

Organised by the Pro Loco of Valdidentro, the event attracts families, curious visitors, and fans of Alpine traditions. It is one of those events that tell the story of the real Valtellina, far from the ski slopes and close to its peasant roots.