The journey to discover the Lower Ossola area can begin in Ornavasso which, along with Mergozzo and Vogogna, is one of the gateways to the Ossola plain. A unique place which was a cultural crossroads from the time of the Celts and Lepontii (two necropolises were discovered there at the end of the 1800s). Around 1300, groups of Walser colonists from the Simplon region settled on the mountain at Ornavasso. From then on, the long history linked to the Walser people began, but the use of the Valais German dialect (Walser) gradually declined during the 19th century.
There are many cultural attractions worth visiting: not to be missed is the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Boden as well as the sanctuary dedicated to the Madonna della Guardia.
The Old Marble Quarry is famous for having supplied the raw material to build the façade of the Certosa di Pavia, for the facings of the pillars in the Octagon of the Duomo di Pavia, for a small part of Milan Cathedral and for the Arco della Pace also in Milan. The historical part of the quarry, which can be visited in its entirety, is the location for important seasonal events, like the famous Grotta di Babbo Natale (Santa Claus’s Cave).
Furthermore, in Ornavasso there is a restored stretch of the Linea Cadorna, a system of military fortifications built during World War I to defend the northern border of Italy from a possible attack by Austria via Switzerland.
There are also some interesting high altitude trekking trails, with breathtaking views of lakes and mountains: hikes that can be enjoyed throughout the year, thanks to sign-posted itineraries, and suitable even for the least expert walkers.
