The Alps

The Vaia storm of late 2018 devastated the Val di Fiemme forest in northern Italy, a historically significant source of tonewood for musical instruments. Fabio Ognibeni of Ciresa and other local manufacturers are working to salvage the fallen spruce trees, known for their resonant properties, to continue the tradition of crafting high-quality string instruments. The storm caused extensive damage across the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, but efforts are underway to repurpose the wood and support reforestation. Federico Stefani's start-up, Vaia Wood, is creating smartphone speakers from the timber and planting a tree for each product sold. Local craftsmen like Giorgio Leonardelli are also involved in these conservation efforts, ensuring the forest's legacy endures for future generations.

The Sounds of the Alps

Monteviasco, a remote village in the Alpine foothills of Lombardy, Italy, remains isolated with only six permanent residents. The village, accessible only by a mule track, lost its cable car service in 2018 and faced further isolation after a 2020 landslide. The Carabinieri gendarmerie corps supplies essential goods to the residents. Despite the challenges, the community remains resilient, with locals like Augusto and Lucia Cassina deeply connected to the village. The only operating business, the restaurant Il Vecchio Circolo, continues to serve dedicated customers. The village's unique charm attracts tourists and former residents, helping to prevent complete depopulation.

The Sounds of the Alps

Johannes Pleschberger explores the Alpine landscape, highlighting the significant changes due to climate change, such as shrinking glaciers and shifting pasturelands. The Mer de Glace glacier is under protection, and farmers adapt to earlier springs. The Alps' ridges, marking the border between Italy and Switzerland, are becoming mobile due to melting glaciers, complicating the demarcation of national boundaries. Swisstopo uses watersheds to define borders on glaciers, but as glaciers melt, the borders shift. The Rifugio Guide del Cervino, managed by Lucio Trucco, now straddles the border due to glacial retreat. Switzerland and Italy have recognized

Piccola Cassia: a journey between Emilia and Tuscany on an ancient Roman road

The Piccola Cassia is an ancient Roman road that connects Emilia and Tuscany, offering a journey through historical sites, charming villages, and picturesque landscapes. The route, which was part of the Via Francigena, traverses regions known for their culinary delights and rich history. Key locations include Nonantola, Bazzano, Monteveglio, and Fanano, each with unique historical and cultural significance. The best time to travel is from spring to autumn, and travelers are advised to plan and book accommodations in advance due to the small size of the villages along the route.

Journey to Ostana, a laboratory for the rebirth of the mountain

Ostana, a small village in the Valle Po, has transformed from near abandonment to a model of mountain regeneration. The village, which had only five residents in the early 1980s, now boasts 89 inhabitants, primarily young families. Key to this revival has been a focus on sustainable development, cultural preservation, and responsible tourism. Significant contributions from institutions like the Politecnico di Torino and initiatives such as the Monviso Institute have played a crucial role. Ostana's story, marked by community efforts and innovative policies, serves as a beacon for rural revitalization in Italy.

Lago d'Avino: a trek between Italy and Switzerland

The article provides a detailed guide to trekking to Lago d'Avino, located in the Lepontine Alps in Piedmont, Italy. The trek starts from Varzo, passing through San Domenico and Ponte Campo, and involves a steep ascent to the lake at 2,250 meters. Key highlights include the Groppallo chapel, the small village of Cianciavero, and the geological formations known as 'marmitte dei giganti.' The best time to visit is from June to September, with considerations for snow and weather conditions. The trek is not technically difficult but requires good physical fitness due to the significant elevation gain.

La Via Romea Nonantolana: lungo le antiche vie dei pellegrini

The Via Romea Nonantolana is a historic pilgrimage route connecting Nonantola to Rome, traversing scenic landscapes, cultural treasures, and historical sites in Emilia Romagna. The route, rich in history and tradition, includes significant paths like the Via Bibulca and features architectural marvels such as the Abbey of Nonantola and the Castle of Spilamberto. The journey is divided into multiple stages, each offering unique historical and cultural experiences, from ancient abbeys and castles to picturesque villages and natural parks.

Nonna Gatewood, la prima donna a percorrere per intero l’Appalachian Trail

Emma Gatewood, known as Granma Gatewood, became the first woman to hike the entire Appalachian Trail solo in 1955 at the age of 67. Her journey, which began in Ohio and spanned over 3,500 km, was marked by resilience and minimal gear. Despite an abusive marriage and raising 11 children alone, she achieved this feat and repeated it in 1957 and 1964. Her story gained national attention, including coverage in Sports Illustrated, and is chronicled in the book 'Grandma Gatewood’s Walk'.

In Ukraine, railways are saving millions of people

Since the Russian invasion on February 24, 2022, Ukrainian Railways (UZ) has been instrumental in evacuating millions of people and delivering aid. European railway companies have responded by allowing refugees free transit and restoring old lines. UZ has also adapted to export agricultural products by rail due to the Black Sea blockade. Belarusian citizens have sabotaged railway infrastructure to hinder Russian military movements, and UZ has nationalized Russian freight wagons within Ukraine. The war's effects are also felt in non-involved countries like Latvia, with expected significant declines in rail freight traffic and port activity.

Why Italy's olive crisis presents an ecological opportunity

Salento, Italy, is facing a crisis due to the spread of the Xylella Fastidiosa bacterium, which has affected olive production and resulted in significant economic losses. An association named Manu Manu Riforesta! aims to restore biodiversity and bring back vegetation to the region. The local community has shown support for the reforestation efforts, with some donating seeds, plants, or land. The University of Salento is also involved, assisting in selecting suitable plant varieties for the soil.