Castle of Serravalle Circuit (SwitzerlandMobile 626)

The trip highlights numerous landscapes and offers a magnificent view of the surrounding mountains and the Castle of Serravalle.

From the romantic and picturesque little square of Malvaglia Rongie, at 366 m altitude, the trail starts, first passing through the village of Ludiano: very characteristic for its typical grottos — rustic places located in secluded and shaded areas that were used to store cheese, cured meats, and wine, and later became relaxing spots where you can eat local products and drink a good glass of wine.

It climbs through a chestnut forest towards the settlement of Selvapiana, notable for several large buildings, unlike the typical Ticino farmhouses, which are also present. It is said that at its peak, the population counted 300 people and it was the most inhabited of the high hamlets, leaving few inhabitants on the plain below.

The route continues towards Navone, where the oratory of S. Maria Bambina and the settlement of Scarp with its magnificent stone farmhouses stand. From here, the path leads directly to the village of Semione, with its beautiful villas that testify to a history of emigration.

Before returning to Malvaglia, one can admire the ruins of the Castle of Serravalle, whose first site occupation dates back to the 9th century. From 2002 to 2007, the site was systematically investigated as part of an interdisciplinary archaeological research project, promoted by the Academy of Architecture of Mendrisio and the University of Basel, in collaboration with the Cantonal Office for Cultural Heritage.