The Witches of Valle Antigorio

A journey through history and legend in the upper Ossola Valley

The Witches of Valle Antigorio is one of the most evocative events in the Verbano-Cusio-Ossola region. It takes place in Croveo, a small and charming hamlet in the Municipality of Baceno, nestled among the woods and mountains of the upper Antigorio Valley, in Piedmont. For an entire weekend, the village dresses up in theme, welcoming hundreds of visitors into an atmosphere suspended between historical reality and fairy-tale charm.

The historical roots of the event

The event finds its roots in a dark chapter of local history. Between the late 1500s and early 1600s, during the Counter-Reformation, the Inquisition targeted numerous women in the Ossola Valley: herbalists and experts in mountain plants were accused of practicing demonic rites and witchcraft. Popular legends tell of sabbats on Mount Cervandone and rituals on Mount Cistella, while the inhabitants of Croveo are still called striögn (sorcerers in the local dialect) today. The event recovers this memory and transforms it into a cultural and educational journey.

The village transforms

During the event, the streets of Croveo are decorated according to the theme, thanks to the passion and creativity of the residents. Visitors can discover the most characteristic corners of the village, including the old sawmill, the wine press, the mill, the chaplain's house, and its medieval nooks, in an itinerary that combines architectural heritage with storytelling.

Program and activities

The event offers a rich calendar designed for all ages:

• Concerts and live performances, from Celtic music to dance-theater;
• Lectures and conferences on witchcraft in the Ossola region and the history of the Alps;
• Workshops for adults and children: natural cosmetics, sewing, ancient writing, and beekeeping activities;
• Demonstrations of ancient crafts and traditional games;
• Themed walks and excursions with local guides;
• Meetings with herbalists and naturopaths, yoga lessons, and experiential talks.

Local flavors

The gastronomic dimension is not to be missed: along the village streets, craft markets and refreshment points are set up to taste traditional Ossola dishes, in a journey that highlights local mountain products and traditional craftsmanship.

A growing event

Founded in 2014, the event is organized by the Associazione Le Streghe della Valle Antigorio with the support of the Municipality of Baceno and local entities. Over the years, it has become a highly anticipated appointment of the Ossola summer, capable of combining historical education, entertainment, and slow tourism in an authentic corner of the Alpine Piedmont.