Sorisole: Mountains, History and Trails between Petosino and Canto Alto

The area extends from the interhill plain of Petosino to the 1,146-metre-high summit of Canto Alto. Between them, there is a difference in elevation of about 850 metres.

Elevation, Rocks and Landscape

Canto Alto defines Sorisole’s mountain character. Some of its ridges are characterised by open habitats and flower-rich summit meadows. This landscape exists alongside unusual geological features. Above Sorisole, the Morla is particularly interesting from a geological perspective because underground caves accompany its course.

The bedrock can also be examined in detail at the Forcella di Camblì. There, grey, green and red, densely laminated claystones and marls can be seen, with interbedded limestone layers. There are also thin layers of black bituminous claystones. These rocks belong to the “Marne di Bruntino” formation. For those interested in nature, the yellow-bellied toad (Bombina variegata) adds a biological perspective on temporary waters: it lays its eggs in temporary pools and troughs and prefers sunny bodies of water.

Trails to the Forcella di Camblì

The Forcella di Camblì can be reached both from the Cappella del Pisgiù via CAI trail 220 and from the Forcella della Rua via CAI trail 113. Hiking trail 220 begins at the “Pisgiù” restaurant north of Sorisole. A narrow road leads there; parking is available at the starting point. When planning an ascent in Sorisole, the starting point therefore matters: at the “Pisgiù” restaurant, a narrow access road and parking facilities meet, while the second access begins at the Forcella della Rua and follows CAI trail 113.

Chiesa di San Pietro in the Historic Town Centre

The Chiesa di San Pietro is located in the historic town centre of Sorisole. The present church was begun in 1704, after the older church dedicated to the Madonna had been demolished. In 1739, the Chiesa di San Pietro was consecrated and elevated to the status of a provost church.

Its cultural importance extends beyond its architectural history. The Chiesa Prepositurale di San Pietro apostolo e Sant’Alessandro martire is regarded as a museum of Bergamasque Baroque art. Those who choose the town centre as their focus will encounter a church whose construction, consecration and ecclesiastical rank are closely connected with the history of Sorisole.

Mountain Landmark, Custom and Climbing Wall

The third cross, which is still standing, is located on Canto Alto. It was inaugurated on 2 September 1979 and is 32.5 metres high.

The traditional “Lotto dei Morti” is part of the local customs. It is one of Sorisole’s characteristic traditions and is maintained by the parish communities. Another mountain-related point of interest is the “Cörna di Marte” crag, a rock face above Sorisole equipped for free climbing.

Further places for comparison include Cene, Valbondione, Carona, Villa Di Serio, Nembro, Serina, Zogno and Scanzorosciate.

For the overarching travel overview: Bergamo.