Montalto Pavese, the queen of the Oltrepò Pavese, rises majestically on a ridge that acts as a watershed between the valley of the Ghiaia di Montalto stream, a tributary of the Coppa, and that of the Rile di Verzate. A beautiful position from which there is a spectacular view of the Alps and Pre-Alps.
History and magnificence
With a history dating back to the early Middle Ages, the village was originally known as Montaltum. Initially a fief of the Belcredi family, it later passed to the Strozzi of Mantua, a branch of the Florentine noble family, under whom the Belcredi remained the richest and most influential family, retaining ownership of the castle. In 1617 the feud was sold to the Taverna family, Counts of Landriano, but in 1658 the Belcredi regained it and held it until the end of the feudal system in 1797. Over time, the feud became a marquisate and, with the unification of Italy, took on the new name of Montalto Pavese.
The centre of the village is dominated by an imposing castlebuilt at the end of the 16th century by Filiberto Belcredi, representative of the most powerful and wealthy feudal family in the area. The castle was built mainly with materials from an ancient military fortress, giving the noble residence a magnificent beauty. Today the castle is privately owned and its splendid architecture is enhanced by two picturesque historic gardens: one in the Italian style and the other in the English style.
Museum of Rural Life
In the village of Villa Illibardi, next to the parish church of Santa Maria, restored in the 18th century but of even older origins, was opened the Museum of Peasant CivilisationOn display in this museum are ancient agricultural and wine tools used for the cultivation of wheat and grapes, as well as kitchen utensils.
The magic of bees and their story
The ancient Palazzo Cristina houses The Bee Museum, dedicated to two local beekeepers, Zelindo Martini and Carlo Perotti, who were the forerunners of the original collection. The rooms of the museum offer visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the evolution of beekeeping techniques through a specific educational itinerary dedicated to the world of bees. Equipment and clothing used by beekeepers are on display.
Spectacular views
From Montalto Pavese, tackling a few hairpin bends, one reaches the picturesque locality of Belvedere where the chapel of the Madonna del Vento is located, guarded in a wooden aedicule. Climbing even higher, an image of a blessing Christ welcomes tourists to the most fascinating spot of all. It is here, almost certainly, that one can enjoy the best panorama of the entire Oltrepò Pavese area.
The view sweeps over the valley, encompassing the castle of Montalto Pavese and the village of Fortunago, and then goes as far as the highest peak in the area, Monte Lesima.
On clear days, the view can even reach as far as Monte Rosa. This place represents a true natural balcony, an unforgettable experience for visitors who find themselves immersed in the unspoilt beauty of nature.
On the wings of the wind: flying adventures
The Belvedere is not only a popular destination for tourists, but also a meeting point for flying enthusiasts. The area, in fact, is subject to constant winds coming mainly from the west that, when gusts allow, offer the opportunity to soar through the sky, practising hang-gliding and paragliding. But not only extreme sports enliven the skies of Montalto Pavese: it is possible to admire kites and model aircraft soaring through the air, providing entertainment and fun for young and old alike.
An immersion in authentic beauty
Montalto Pavese offers not only breathtaking landscapes, but also the chance to immerse yourself in the history and culture of the area. The testimonies of ancient rural life in the Museo della Civiltà Contadina (Museum of Rural Life) and the fascinating Museo delle Api (Bee Museum) in Palazzo Cristina are one of the fundamental stages in understanding the richness and traditions of Montalto Pavese. The magic of the village lies in its ability to fascinate and involve visitors, offering them a unique and unforgettable experience. For those who love nature, outdoor sports and cultural itineraries, this extraordinary place knows how to conquer with its authentic beauty and rich history.
