Le Sommet de l'Artisanat Valdôtain de Tradition

The Excellence of Aosta Valley Craftsmanship

The Forte di Bard hosts Le Sommet de l'Artisanat Valdôtain de Tradition every autumn, an exhibition that showcases the award-winning works from the Traditional Craftsmanship Exhibition-Competition held in Aosta during the summer. It is the highest showcase – the 'sommet', the peak – of a heritage of manual skills that profoundly characterizes the identity of the Aosta Valley.

A Heritage of Trades

The exhibited works span various sectors of traditional Aosta Valley craftsmanship: wood carving and sculpture, turning, agricultural tools, wicker basketry, wooden flowers, leather working, wrought iron, stone, toys, furniture, traditional costumes, period footwear, and copper items. Each piece testifies to a technique and a story, the result of the work of artisans who preserve ancient gestures.

A Living Tradition in the Municipality of Bard

Set up in the exhibition spaces of the fortress – and in the past, also in the former military chapel – the exhibition offers free admission and represents a precious opportunity to get to know the Aosta Valley 'savoir-faire' up close. In the evocative setting of the Municipality of Bard and its Fort, visitors can discover how traditional craftsmanship remains a fundamental identity element of Aosta Valley alpine culture to this day.