Pesa Vegia

A tradition spanning over 400 years

The Pesa Vegia is the historical re-enactment that enlivens Bellano, on Lake Como, in the province of Lecco, every January 5th. Its origins date back to 1606, when the town, then under Spanish rule, was the scene of a dispute related to the use of incorrect weights and measures that penalized the population in daily trade. From that episode, a symbolic and peaceful rebellion was born, which over time has transformed into a collective festival celebrating fairness, justice, and community identity.

A night of history and spectacle

For an entire night, the historic center of Bellano is populated by costumed figures and period settings. The Living Nativity scene, King Herod's Court, and other historical scenes come to life, while tours on Lucia, the traditional lake boats, depart from the pier. The central moment is the hauling of the 'Pese' through the village streets, followed by the arrival of the Spanish Messengers' Gondola and a fireworks display on the pier.

The Benevolent Ordinance

The symbolic heart of the festival is the reading of the Benevolent Ordinance from the Town Hall balcony: the proclamation, in dialect, that re-establishes fair weights and measures. This is followed by the singing of Teresa di Pom, the procession of the Magi, and the lighting of the bonfire on the pier, which concludes the night.

Bellano and Lake Como

Overlooking the eastern branch of Lake Como, at the entrance to Valsassina, Bellano is also famous for its Orrido, the spectacular gorge carved by the Pioverna stream. During the Pesa Vegia, the village lights up and becomes an unmissable destination during the Lombard Christmas period, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the province of Lecco and beyond.