Chianale, borgo di pietra - Pontechianale
Risalendo la Valle Varaita per raggiungere il Colle dell'Agnello si incontra il bel paesino di Chianale, inserito meritatamente nel circuito dei Borghi più belli d’Italia.
Indice dei contenuti
Dove siamo: Valle Varaita
La Valle Varaita è una delle valli occitane della provincia di Cuneo e si estende per circa 70 km lungo una strada panoramica che da Saluzzo raggiunge il Colle dell’Agnello, valico alpino, mitico traguardo di imprese ciclistiche, che a 2744 metri unisce il cuneese con la valle francese del Queyras.Questa vallata, percorsa dal torrente Varaita, è una delle due valli del Monviso, la cui sagoma emerge inconfondibile da qualsiasi punto, ed è caratterizzata da rigogliosi boschi e radure dove crescono numerose piante officinali.
Qui, non lontano da Chianale , è presente il Bosco dell’Alevè, la più vasta estensione di pino cembro in Italia, un bosco antichissimo, le cui origini risalgono alle grandi glaciazioni del quaternario.
Una meraviglia tutta da esplorare grazie ai numerosi sentieri che lo attraversano!
Incantevole frazione del comune di Pontechianale, Chianale si trova alla fine della Valle Varaita, a 1800 metri di altezza, ultimo paese lungo la via che sale al valico.
Il suo nome in lingua occitana è La Cianal che significa “canale” e che probabilmente allude a un’opera di canalizzazione del torrente Varaita oppure indica la sorgente stessa del fiume.
Noto anche come Borgo di Pietra è sorto sull’antico Chemin Royal, la strada del sale che arrivava in Francia.
La storia di Chianale
La storia di Chianale è profondamente legata alla sua posizione geografica e al suo ruolo di antico villaggio di montagna.La zona è stata abitata fin dall'epoca romana, ma nel corso dei secoli ha subito varie trasformazioni e influenze culturali.
La vita tradizionale a Chianale era strettamente legata all'agricoltura, all'allevamento e alla lavorazione del legno.
Le prime testimonianze scritte sulla presenza umana a Chianale potrebbero risalire a documenti storici della fine del X secolo quando erano frequenti le incursioni e le razzie dei Saraceni.
La loro cacciata dalla Valle Varaita è tuttora ricordata con le feste della “Baìo” di Sampeyre e la “Beò” di Bellino.
Nel 1125 il territorio è assegnato ai marchesi di Saluzzo e cento anni dopo viene ceduto al Delfinato francese sotto cui rimane per quasi quattro secoli.
A quell’epoca Chianale faceva parte della Castellata e con i paesi di Pontechianale, Casteldelfino e Bellino godevano di un’autonomia, eccezione per l’epoca, che li raggruppava nella Repubblica degli Escartons.
Gli Escartons erano comunità autonome dotate di una certa autonomia amministrativa e giuridica e caratterizzate da una forma di governo democratica in cui gli abitanti eleggevano i loro rappresentanti e partecipavano alla gestione degli affari locali.
Nel 1713 con il trattato di Utrecht la zona passa ai Savoia.
Come la maggior parte dei villaggi alpini anche qui lo sviluppo delle vie di comunicazione e delle infrastrutture ha cambiato la sua vita portando ad una forte migrazione delle popolazioni verso le pianura.
Dato interessante è che sul finire del 1800 il borgo in pietra di Chianale contava ben 449 abitanti a fronte degli appena 180 di oggi, proprio per questo il borgo detiene il primato come zona più spopolata di tutta la Val Varaita.
Oggi con la riscoperta della montagna, Chianale è apprezzato per la sua bellezza naturale, per le attività outdoor che attirano appassionati di sport alpini e da chi desidera sperimentare la tranquillità, le antiche tradizioni e la cultura alpestre.
Alla scoperta di Chianale
Chianale offre un patrimonio culturale e architettonico incredibile e, sebbene sia un piccolo borgo, risulta essere una meta ideale in tutte le stagioni. Passeggiando tra i suoi stretti vicoli in pietra si rimane stupiti per la bellezza delle abitazioni con travi a vista e tetti in ardesia, i balconi fioriti in estate e la neve che incornicia tutto in inverno. Il borgo è costituito da due nuclei di case, separate dal torrente Varaita e collegate tra loro da un bel ponte in pietra, cuore del borgo, dietro il quale di innalza l'antica Chiesa di Sant’Antonio.Questo edificio religioso risale al XIV secolo e fu la Parrocchiale di Chianale dal 1459 fino a tutto il Seicento. E’ formata da un campanile a vela chiuso su tre lati al quale si accede attraverso una scalinata che scende dal livello della strada antistante verso il della navata. Da notare il portale romanico con tre archi sovrapposti a forma di semicerchio e la raffigurazione di Sant’Antonio Abate nella lunetta.
La vera sorpresa è però il suo interno, con volta a botte, archi trasversali retti da mensole scolpite con espressivi mascheroni e têtes coupées ed affreschi che di pregio che raffigurano il Giudizio universale e i regni dell’Aldilà.
Dal registro catastale di Chianale, la cui prima redazione risale al secolo XVIII, pare che la Chiesa di Sant’Antonio venne costruita sul luogo di una abitazione appartenuta ad Abraham Vasserot feu Constans che la lasciò in eredità alla corona francese.
Di fronte alla Chiesa di Sant’Antonio , al di là del torrente Varaita si trova la Chiesa di San Lorenzo, edificata nel XVIII secolo su richiesta del re di Francia Luigi XIV.
Si tratta di un massiccio ed imponente edificio a pianta rettangolare in pietra locale e calce.
La facciata principale, esposta a Nord, è realizzata in pietra a vista ed è contraddistinta da un portico con volte decorate ed una scalinata che consente di accedere all’edificio.
Al suo interno conserva un bellissimo altare del 1726 riccamente intagliato che poggia su quattro massicce colonne tortili di pino cembro alle cui spirali si avvolgono tralci di vite con cerchi di foglie e frutti policromi e dorati conosciuti come "grappoli del Melezet" .
Da ammirare anche il ricco soffitto a cassettoni che presenta riquadri con stelle d'oro su fondo azzurro.
Proseguendo lungo lo Chemin Royal, l’asse centrale del borgo in pietra, d’obbligo è la sosta al civico n.17 conosciuto come Casa Martinet, ciò che resta del tempio Calvinista dove si può ancora vedere sulla facciata la bifora con le armi di Francia e Delfinato.
Chianale, infatti, fu, per buona parte del Seicento, fino alla vigilia della revoca dell’Editto di Nantes, l’unico centro della Valle Varaita in cui fosse consentita la libertà di culto.
Luogo di villeggiatura estiva e di sport invernali, grazie alla vicinanza del lago e alla sua posizione sul versante sudoccidentale del Monviso, questo delizioso villaggio conserva un fascino incontaminato.
Qua la cultura provenzale è ancora molto sentita e durante le feste patronali uomini, donne e bambini vestono ancora i costumi tradizionali che si possono ammirare anche nel Museo del Costume e dell’Artigianato Tessile dell’alta Valle Varaita all'interno dell’antica Missione Cappuccina.
Passeggiare tra le vie del borgo in pietra rimane comunque il modo migliore per respirare l’atmosfera magica del luogo e per immergersi nella cultura occitana. .
Casette di pietra, tetti d'ardesia, balconi in legno, portali affrescati, pregevoli oggetti di artigianato ed il profumo dei boschi che lo circondano fanno veramente di Chianale uno dei Borghi più belli d'Italia.
Attività e sport a Chianale
Oltre alla visita del paese ci sono molte attività da fare a Chianale e nei dintorni. .La Valle Varaita, infatti, offre un bel ventaglio di esperienze per gli amanti della natura e delle attività all’aria aperta. .
Chianale è circondata da una bellezza naturale straordinaria, e ci sono vari sentieri escursionistici che permettono di esplorare i dintorni e godersi panorami mozzafiato. .
Un consiglio è quello di andare a passeggiare nel Bosco dell’Alevè, il bosco di cembri più esteso delle Alpi disteso lungo le pendici del Monviso. .
Costituito da 825 ettari di piante secolari è un antico gioiello, giunto incredibilmente intatto fino ai giorni nostri, già esistente in epoca romana tanto che Virgilio lo citò nell’Eneide . .
Un’incredibile immersione tra flora e fauna del luogo! .
I più esperti potranno cimentarsi in escursioni verso il Monviso, mentre le famiglie possono immergersi nella natura con una semplice passeggiata verso Pontechianale ed il lungo lago. .
Chianale è anche una delle tappe del Valle Varaita trekking, giro escursionistico di 12 giorni con uno sviluppo complessivo di circa 180 Km e un dislivello positivo di 7300 metri. .
Ovviamente non mancano itinerari adatti ad essere percorsi in MTB e gli amanti della pesca possono approfittare del Lago di Pontechianale e del Torrente Varaita. .
Inoltre, il Lago di Pontechianale si presta ad altre attività come il windsurf e la canoa. .
Chianale offre diverse attività interessanti anche durante i mesi invernali, quando si trasforma in un incantevole paesaggio innevato. .
Ad esempio ci si può arrampicare sulle cascate di ghiaccio o ciaspolare nei boschi. .
>> Clicca QUI per scoprire CHIANALE in inverno <<
E se le attività sportive non rientrano nelle proprie abitudini, date le ridotte fonti di inquinamento luminoso, Chianale può essere un luogo ideale per l'osservazione delle stelle. Se il cielo è chiaro, vale la pena prendersi del tempo per ammirare l’arco celeste.
Gastronomia e prodotti tipici
Quale modo migliore per immergenti nella cultura del luogo se non attraverso la sua cucina ed i suoi prodotti tipici?A Chianale come in tutta la Valle Varaita la cucina montana è influenzata dalla vicinanza delle vicine regioni francesi .
Le Raviòlas, gnocchi di patate e formaggio conditi con burro fuso, sono il piatto tipico del borgo.
A questi si aggiungono i Crosetins, gnocchetti di farina di segale, il Tomino di Melle e le tome d’alpeggio, dolci di castagne, miele ed erbe officinali.
Per quanto riguarda l’artigianato tutta la Valle Varaita è dedita alla lavorazione e all’intaglio del legno, tradizione secolare resa possibile dalla massiccia presenza di materie prime come il larice, il pino cembro, il castagno, il ciliegio, il frassino.
La maggior parte dei laboratori si dedicano alla produzione dei mobili, ma non mancano piccole botteghe che vendono manufatti artistici.
A Chianale li potete trovare “A la simo de l’arbu” e al risto museo “Le Montagnard”, locale caratteristico ricavato da una antica stalla del 1600 realizzato in legno ed arredato con oggetti dell'antica tradizione contadina
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Eventi da non perdere a Chianale ed in Val Varaita
A Chianale ogni anno il 10 Agosto ricorre La festa di San Lorenzo, suggestiva festa patronale in occasione della quale, durante la processione, vengono sfoggiati i ricchi costumi occitani dell'alta Valle Varaita. Un’occasione per ammirare i tipici con scialli in lana o seta e le preziose cuffie al tombolo in mostra anche presso il nel Museo del Costume e dell’Artigianato Tessile.Il 17 Gennaio è invece la Festa di Sant’Antonio: una celebrazione tutta invernale, che avviene quando il borgo è solitamente coperto di neve, dedicata secondo tradizione cristiana, alla benedizione degli animali a cui, di solito, fa seguito una polentata.
Il Carnevale alpino dei loups è un evento che ha ripreso vita solo di recente a Chianale. Durante questa festa, i giovani del paese si travestono, imbrattano il volto di nero e tengono alla corda un lupo. L’animale, coperto da pelle di montone e una maschera antigas, corre per i viottoli del paese, compiendo gesti trasgressivi dal simbolico valore di fertilità nei confronti delle donne.
Il corteo si snoda di casa in casa, e ogni famiglia, per placare l'animale tanto temuto da pastori e montanari, offre doni in natura che vengono poi consumati durante la festa collettiva del sabato grasso, accompagnati da musiche e balli tradizionali.
Altro evento che attira curiosi e turisti è l’Alpentraffen, il motoraduno invernale più alto d'Italia.
Giunta ormai alla nona edizione, la manifestazione vede come protagonisti intrepidi motociclisti provenienti da tutta Italia che con i loro bolidi a due ruote trascorrono 3 giorni di Gennaio immersi nella natura incontaminata della Valle Varaita. Un’esperienza all’insegna della convivialità in condizioni meteorologiche spesso estreme.
Come non dimenticare, poi, tra gli eventi da non perdere in Val Varaita la Baio di Sampeyre e la Beo di Bellino, antichissima festa pagana intrisa di simbolismo associato alla rinascita e alla fertilità, in cui persino le rappresentazioni dei ruoli femminili sono affidate agli uomini. Nel corso dei secoli, a questa festa si è sovrapposto un significato storico connesso all'espulsione dei Saraceni dalle valli.
>> Scopri la tradizione della BAIO di SAMPEYRE ed i suoi personaggi <<
Chianale, con il suo interessante patrimonio storico e architettonico, le antiche costruzioni, le chiese e i vicoli stretti che contribuiscono a creare un'atmosfera affascinante e autentica, l’aria fresca e pulita che sirespira e la serenità che si percepisce , rappresenta una meta da raggiungere almeno una volta nella vita.
>> QUI trovi altri LUOGHI da VISITARE nei dintorni di CHIANALE <<
Chianale, stone village
The Varaita Valley is one of the Occitan valleys in the Cuneo province and extends for approximately 70 km along a panoramic road that from Saluzzo reaches the alpine Agnello Pass, a legendary finish line for cycling feats, which at 2744 meters connects the Cuneo area with the French Queyras valley.
This valley, crossed by the Varaita stream, is one of the two valleys of Monviso, whose silhouette emerges unmistakably from any point, and is characterized by lush woods and clearings where grow numerous medicinal plants.
Here, not far from Chianale, there is the Alevè Forest, the most vast extension of stone pine in Italy, an ancient forest, whose origins date back to the great glaciations of the Quaternary.
A wonderful place to explore thanks to the many paths that cross it!
Enchanting hamlet of the municipality of Pontechianale, Chianale is located at the end of the Varaita Valley, in 1800 meters high, last village along the road that goes up to the pass.
Its name in the Occitan language is La Cianal which means "canal" and which probably alludes to a canalisation work for the Varaita stream or indicates the source of the river itself.
Also known as Borgo di Pietra it was built on the ancient Chemin Royal, the salt road that reached France.
The history of Chianale is profoundly linked to its geographical position and its role as an ancient mountain village.
The area has been inhabited since Roman times, but over the centuries it has undergone various transformations and cultural influences.
Traditional life in Chianale was closely linked to agriculture, livestock breeding and wood processing.
The first written testimonies on the human presence in Chianale could date back to historical documents from the end of 10th century when Saracen raids were frequent.
Their expulsion from the Varaita Valley is still remembered with the "Baìo" celebrations in Sampeyre and the "Beò" celebrations in Bellino.
In 1125 the territory was assigned to the marquises of Saluzzo and one hundred years later it was ceded to the French Dauphiné under which it remained for almost four centuries.
At that time Chianale was part of the Castellata and with the villages of Pontechianale, Casteldelfino and Bellino enjoyed autonomy, an exception for the time, which grouped them in the Republic of the Escartons.
The Escartons were autonomous communities endowed with a certain administrative and legal autonomy and characterized by a democratic form of government in which the inhabitants elected their representatives and participated in the management of local affairs.
In 1713 with the Treaty of Utrecht the area passed to the Savoys.
Like most alpine villages, also here the development of communication routes and infrastructures has changed life, leading to a strong migration of populations towards the plains.
An interesting fact is that at the end of the 19th century the stone village of Chianale had 449 inhabitants compared to just 180 today, which is precisely why the village holds the record as the most depopulated area in the entire Val Varaita.
Today with the rediscovery of the mountains, Chianale is appreciated for its natural beauty, for outdoor activities that attract alpine sports enthusiasts and those who want to experience tranquility, ancient traditions and alpine culture.
Chianale offers an incredible cultural and architectural heritage and, although it is a small village, it is be an ideal destination in all seasons. Walking through its narrow stone alleys you will be amazed by the beauty of the houses with exposed beams and slate roofs, the flowered balconies in summer and the snow that frames everything in winter. The village is made up of two groups of houses, separated by the Varaita stream and connected to each other by a beautiful stone bridge, the heart of the village, behind which stands the ancient Church of Sant'Antonio.
This religious building dates back to the 14th century was the parish church of Chianale from 1459 until the end of the 17th century. It is made up of a bell tower closed on three sides which is accessed via a staircase that descends from the level of the street in front towards the nave. Note the Romanesque portal with three overlapping arches in the shape of a semicircle and the depiction of Sant'Antonio Abate in the lunette.
The real surprise, however, is its interior, with a barrel vault, transverse arches supported by corbels sculpted with expressive masks and têtes coupées and valuable frescoes depicting the Last Judgment and the kingdoms of the afterlife.
From the land register of Chianale, whose first draft dates back to the 18th century, it appears that the Church of Sant'Antonio was built on the site of a house that belonged to Abraham Vasserot feu Constans who left it as a legacy to the French crown.
Opposite the Church of Sant'Antonio, beyond the Varaita stream is the Church of San Lorenzo, built in the 18th century at the request of the French king Louis XIV.
It is a massive and imposing building with a rectangular plan in local stone and lime.
The main façade, facing north, is made of exposed stone and is characterized by a portico with decorated vaults and a staircase that allows access to the building.
Inside it preserves a beautiful, richly carved altar from 1726 which rests on four massive twisted columns of stone pine whose spirals are wrapped with vine shoots with circles of leaves and polychrome and golden fruits known as "Melezet bunches".
Also worth admiring is the rich coffered ceiling which features panels with gold stars on a blue background.
Continuing along the Chemin Royal, the central axis of the stone village, have a stop at number 17 known as Casa Martinet that is what remains of the Calvinist temple where are already present the mullioned window with the weapons of France and Dauphiné.
Chianale, in fact, was, for a good part of the seventeenth century until the eve of the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, the only center in the Varaita Valley where freedom of worship was allowed.
A place of summer holiday and winter sports, thanks to the proximity of the lake and its position on the southwestern side of Monviso, this delightful village retains an uncontaminated charm.
Here the Provençal culture is still very much felt and during the patronal festivals men, women and children still dress in traditional costumes which can also be admired in the Museum of Costume and Textile Crafts of the upper Varaita Valley inside the ancient Capuchin Mission .
Walking through the streets of the stone village remains the best way to breathe in the magical atmosphere of the place and to immerse yourself in the Occitan culture. .
Stone houses, slate roofs, wooden balconies, frescoed portals, valuable craft objects and the scent of the woods that surround it truly make Chianale one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
In addition to visiting the village, there are many activities to do in Chianale and the surrounding area. .
The Varaita Valley, in fact, offers a nice range of experiences for lovers of nature and outdoor activities. .
Chianale is surrounded by extraordinary natural beauty, and there are various hiking trails that allow you to explore the surroundings and enjoy breathtaking views. .
A tip is to go for a walk in the Alevè Forest, the largest pine forest in the Alps stretching along the slopes of Monviso. .
Made up of 825 hectares of centuries-old plants, it is an ancient jewel, which has survived incredibly intact to the present day, already existing in Roman times, so much so that Virgil mentioned it in the Aeneid. .
An incredible immersion in the local flora and fauna! .
The more experienced will be able to try their hand in hikings towards Monviso, while families can immerse themselves in nature with a simple walk towards Pontechianale and the lakeside. .
Chianale is also one of the stages of the Valle Varaita trekking, a 12-day hiking tour with a total length of approximately 180 km and a positive difference in altitude of 7300 metres. .
Obviously there is no shortage of itineraries suitable for mountain biking and fishing lovers can take advantage of Lake Pontechianale and the Varaita stream. .
Furthermore, Lake Pontechianale lends itself to other activities such as windsurfing and canoeing. .
Chianale offers various interesting activities even during the winter months, when it transforms into an enchanting snowy landscape. .
For example, you can climb ice waterfalls or snowshoe in the woods. .
And if sporting activities are not part of your habits, given the reduced sources of light pollution, Chianale can be a great place for stargazing. If the sky is clear, it is worth taking time to admire the celestial arch.
What better way to immerse yourself in the culture of the place than through its cuisine and its typical products?
In Chianale as in the entire Varaita Valley, mountain cuisine is influenced by the proximity of the nearby French regions.
Raviòlas, potato and cheese gnocchi seasoned with melted butter, are the typical dish of the village.
Added to these are the Crosetins, rye flour dumplings, the Tomino di Melle and the alpine tome , sweets made with chestnuts, honey and medicinal herbs.
As regards craftsmanship, the entire Varaita Valley is dedicated to woodworking and carving, a centuries-old tradition made possible by the massive presence of raw materials such as larch, stone pine, chestnut, cherry and ash.
Most of the workshops are dedicated to the production of furniture, but there is no shortage of small shops selling artistic artefacts.
In Chianale you can find them "A la simo de l'arbu" and at the restaurant museum "Le Montagnard" , a characteristic place created from an ancient stable from the 1600s made of wood and furnished with objects from the ancient peasant tradition.
In Chianale every year on August 10th occuers the feast of San Lorenzo , a suggestive patronal festival on the occasion of which, during the procession, are shown off the rich Occitan costumes of the upper Varaita Valley . An opportunity to admire the typical wool or silk shawls and the precious bobbin bonnets also display at the Museum of Costume and Textile Crafts.
January 17th there is the Feast of Saint Anthony: an all-winter celebration, which takes place when the village is usually covered in snow, dedicated according to Christian tradition, to the blessing of the animals which is usually followed by a polenta.
The Alpine Carnival of the Loups is an event that has only recently come back to life in Chianale. During this festival the young people of the village dress up, smear their faces in black and hold a wolf on a rope. The animal, covered in sheepskin and a gas mask, runs through the streets of the town, performing transgressive gestures with the symbolic value of fertility towards women.
The procession winds from house to house, and each family, to appease the animal so feared by shepherds and mountaineers, offers gifts in kind which are then consumed during the collective celebration of Shrove Saturday, accompanied by traditional music and dances.
Another event that attracts curious people and tourists is the Alpentraffen, the highest winter motorcycle rally in Italy.
Now in its ninth edition, the event features intrepid motorcyclists from all over Italy who spend 3 days of January immersed in the uncontaminated nature of the Varaita Valley with their two-wheeled cars. An experience of conviviality in often extreme weather conditions.
How can we not forget, among the events not to be missed in Val Varaita, the Baio di Sampeyre and the Beo di Bellino, an ancient pagan festival steeped in symbolism associated with rebirth and fertility, in which even the representations of female roles are entrusted to men . Over the centuries, this festival has had a historical meaning connected to the expulsion of the Saracens from the valleys.
Chianale, with its fascinating historical and architectural heritage, ancient buildings, churches, and narrow alleys contributing to creating a charming and authentic atmosphere, the fresh and clean air one breathes, and the serenity one experiences, represents a destination to reach at least once in a lifetime
The Varaita Valley is one of the Occitan valleys in the Cuneo province and extends for approximately 70 km along a panoramic road that from Saluzzo reaches the alpine Agnello Pass, a legendary finish line for cycling feats, which at 2744 meters connects the Cuneo area with the French Queyras valley.
This valley, crossed by the Varaita stream, is one of the two valleys of Monviso, whose silhouette emerges unmistakably from any point, and is characterized by lush woods and clearings where grow numerous medicinal plants.
Here, not far from Chianale, there is the Alevè Forest, the most vast extension of stone pine in Italy, an ancient forest, whose origins date back to the great glaciations of the Quaternary.
A wonderful place to explore thanks to the many paths that cross it!
Enchanting hamlet of the municipality of Pontechianale, Chianale is located at the end of the Varaita Valley, in 1800 meters high, last village along the road that goes up to the pass.
Its name in the Occitan language is La Cianal which means "canal" and which probably alludes to a canalisation work for the Varaita stream or indicates the source of the river itself.
Also known as Borgo di Pietra it was built on the ancient Chemin Royal, the salt road that reached France.
The history of Chianale is profoundly linked to its geographical position and its role as an ancient mountain village.
The area has been inhabited since Roman times, but over the centuries it has undergone various transformations and cultural influences.
Traditional life in Chianale was closely linked to agriculture, livestock breeding and wood processing.
The first written testimonies on the human presence in Chianale could date back to historical documents from the end of 10th century when Saracen raids were frequent.
Their expulsion from the Varaita Valley is still remembered with the "Baìo" celebrations in Sampeyre and the "Beò" celebrations in Bellino.
In 1125 the territory was assigned to the marquises of Saluzzo and one hundred years later it was ceded to the French Dauphiné under which it remained for almost four centuries.
At that time Chianale was part of the Castellata and with the villages of Pontechianale, Casteldelfino and Bellino enjoyed autonomy, an exception for the time, which grouped them in the Republic of the Escartons.
The Escartons were autonomous communities endowed with a certain administrative and legal autonomy and characterized by a democratic form of government in which the inhabitants elected their representatives and participated in the management of local affairs.
In 1713 with the Treaty of Utrecht the area passed to the Savoys.
Like most alpine villages, also here the development of communication routes and infrastructures has changed life, leading to a strong migration of populations towards the plains.
An interesting fact is that at the end of the 19th century the stone village of Chianale had 449 inhabitants compared to just 180 today, which is precisely why the village holds the record as the most depopulated area in the entire Val Varaita.
Today with the rediscovery of the mountains, Chianale is appreciated for its natural beauty, for outdoor activities that attract alpine sports enthusiasts and those who want to experience tranquility, ancient traditions and alpine culture.
Chianale offers an incredible cultural and architectural heritage and, although it is a small village, it is be an ideal destination in all seasons. Walking through its narrow stone alleys you will be amazed by the beauty of the houses with exposed beams and slate roofs, the flowered balconies in summer and the snow that frames everything in winter. The village is made up of two groups of houses, separated by the Varaita stream and connected to each other by a beautiful stone bridge, the heart of the village, behind which stands the ancient Church of Sant'Antonio.
This religious building dates back to the 14th century was the parish church of Chianale from 1459 until the end of the 17th century. It is made up of a bell tower closed on three sides which is accessed via a staircase that descends from the level of the street in front towards the nave. Note the Romanesque portal with three overlapping arches in the shape of a semicircle and the depiction of Sant'Antonio Abate in the lunette.
The real surprise, however, is its interior, with a barrel vault, transverse arches supported by corbels sculpted with expressive masks and têtes coupées and valuable frescoes depicting the Last Judgment and the kingdoms of the afterlife.
From the land register of Chianale, whose first draft dates back to the 18th century, it appears that the Church of Sant'Antonio was built on the site of a house that belonged to Abraham Vasserot feu Constans who left it as a legacy to the French crown.
Opposite the Church of Sant'Antonio, beyond the Varaita stream is the Church of San Lorenzo, built in the 18th century at the request of the French king Louis XIV.
It is a massive and imposing building with a rectangular plan in local stone and lime.
The main façade, facing north, is made of exposed stone and is characterized by a portico with decorated vaults and a staircase that allows access to the building.
Inside it preserves a beautiful, richly carved altar from 1726 which rests on four massive twisted columns of stone pine whose spirals are wrapped with vine shoots with circles of leaves and polychrome and golden fruits known as "Melezet bunches".
Also worth admiring is the rich coffered ceiling which features panels with gold stars on a blue background.
Continuing along the Chemin Royal, the central axis of the stone village, have a stop at number 17 known as Casa Martinet that is what remains of the Calvinist temple where are already present the mullioned window with the weapons of France and Dauphiné.
Chianale, in fact, was, for a good part of the seventeenth century until the eve of the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, the only center in the Varaita Valley where freedom of worship was allowed.
A place of summer holiday and winter sports, thanks to the proximity of the lake and its position on the southwestern side of Monviso, this delightful village retains an uncontaminated charm.
Here the Provençal culture is still very much felt and during the patronal festivals men, women and children still dress in traditional costumes which can also be admired in the Museum of Costume and Textile Crafts of the upper Varaita Valley inside the ancient Capuchin Mission .
Walking through the streets of the stone village remains the best way to breathe in the magical atmosphere of the place and to immerse yourself in the Occitan culture. .
Stone houses, slate roofs, wooden balconies, frescoed portals, valuable craft objects and the scent of the woods that surround it truly make Chianale one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
In addition to visiting the village, there are many activities to do in Chianale and the surrounding area. .
The Varaita Valley, in fact, offers a nice range of experiences for lovers of nature and outdoor activities. .
Chianale is surrounded by extraordinary natural beauty, and there are various hiking trails that allow you to explore the surroundings and enjoy breathtaking views. .
A tip is to go for a walk in the Alevè Forest, the largest pine forest in the Alps stretching along the slopes of Monviso. .
Made up of 825 hectares of centuries-old plants, it is an ancient jewel, which has survived incredibly intact to the present day, already existing in Roman times, so much so that Virgil mentioned it in the Aeneid. .
An incredible immersion in the local flora and fauna! .
The more experienced will be able to try their hand in hikings towards Monviso, while families can immerse themselves in nature with a simple walk towards Pontechianale and the lakeside. .
Chianale is also one of the stages of the Valle Varaita trekking, a 12-day hiking tour with a total length of approximately 180 km and a positive difference in altitude of 7300 metres. .
Obviously there is no shortage of itineraries suitable for mountain biking and fishing lovers can take advantage of Lake Pontechianale and the Varaita stream. .
Furthermore, Lake Pontechianale lends itself to other activities such as windsurfing and canoeing. .
Chianale offers various interesting activities even during the winter months, when it transforms into an enchanting snowy landscape. .
For example, you can climb ice waterfalls or snowshoe in the woods. .
And if sporting activities are not part of your habits, given the reduced sources of light pollution, Chianale can be a great place for stargazing. If the sky is clear, it is worth taking time to admire the celestial arch.
What better way to immerse yourself in the culture of the place than through its cuisine and its typical products?
In Chianale as in the entire Varaita Valley, mountain cuisine is influenced by the proximity of the nearby French regions.
Raviòlas, potato and cheese gnocchi seasoned with melted butter, are the typical dish of the village.
Added to these are the Crosetins, rye flour dumplings, the Tomino di Melle and the alpine tome , sweets made with chestnuts, honey and medicinal herbs.
As regards craftsmanship, the entire Varaita Valley is dedicated to woodworking and carving, a centuries-old tradition made possible by the massive presence of raw materials such as larch, stone pine, chestnut, cherry and ash.
Most of the workshops are dedicated to the production of furniture, but there is no shortage of small shops selling artistic artefacts.
In Chianale you can find them "A la simo de l'arbu" and at the restaurant museum "Le Montagnard" , a characteristic place created from an ancient stable from the 1600s made of wood and furnished with objects from the ancient peasant tradition.
In Chianale every year on August 10th occuers the feast of San Lorenzo , a suggestive patronal festival on the occasion of which, during the procession, are shown off the rich Occitan costumes of the upper Varaita Valley . An opportunity to admire the typical wool or silk shawls and the precious bobbin bonnets also display at the Museum of Costume and Textile Crafts.
January 17th there is the Feast of Saint Anthony: an all-winter celebration, which takes place when the village is usually covered in snow, dedicated according to Christian tradition, to the blessing of the animals which is usually followed by a polenta.
The Alpine Carnival of the Loups is an event that has only recently come back to life in Chianale. During this festival the young people of the village dress up, smear their faces in black and hold a wolf on a rope. The animal, covered in sheepskin and a gas mask, runs through the streets of the town, performing transgressive gestures with the symbolic value of fertility towards women.
The procession winds from house to house, and each family, to appease the animal so feared by shepherds and mountaineers, offers gifts in kind which are then consumed during the collective celebration of Shrove Saturday, accompanied by traditional music and dances.
Another event that attracts curious people and tourists is the Alpentraffen, the highest winter motorcycle rally in Italy.
Now in its ninth edition, the event features intrepid motorcyclists from all over Italy who spend 3 days of January immersed in the uncontaminated nature of the Varaita Valley with their two-wheeled cars. An experience of conviviality in often extreme weather conditions.
How can we not forget, among the events not to be missed in Val Varaita, the Baio di Sampeyre and the Beo di Bellino, an ancient pagan festival steeped in symbolism associated with rebirth and fertility, in which even the representations of female roles are entrusted to men . Over the centuries, this festival has had a historical meaning connected to the expulsion of the Saracens from the valleys.
Chianale, with its fascinating historical and architectural heritage, ancient buildings, churches, and narrow alleys contributing to creating a charming and authentic atmosphere, the fresh and clean air one breathes, and the serenity one experiences, represents a destination to reach at least once in a lifetime
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