Claro and its Monastery (SwitzerlandMobile 627)
Claro and its Monastery (SwitzerlandMobile 627)
Bellinzona e Valli Turismo Verified partner
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Monastery of ClaroPhoto: www.photolocatelli.ch, Bellinzona e Valli Turismo
Founded in 1490, the Benedictine Monastery of S. Maria Assunta above Claro is the oldest Monastery in Ticino.
It stands solitary on a rocky spur above the village of Claro, covered by chestnut woods, set in a stunning landscape and wrapped in contemplative silence. The church, dedicated to the Madonna, instead dates back to the 1300s.
You ascend from upper Claro, following the marked mule track that starts after the parking lot near the little church of Sant’Ambrogio.
Walking along the mule track is like taking a dive into the past, it is a metaphor for life: at times challenging, full of curves and forks that lead from the frenzy of everyday life to silence. If the climb is somewhat tiring and steep, once you reach the rock you can admire the beauty of the panorama and the tranquility. Visiting the Monastery, besides admiring paintings and sculptures of rare beauty, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the Riviera Valley, stretching from Bellinzona to Biasca.
In recent years the monastic buildings have been restored, giving them new beauty and harmony. Art lovers in all its forms will be amazed. Inside there are three neoclassical altars and mural paintings from the late 15th century. Of particular artistic interest is also the Pietà, a sculptural group in gilded and painted linden wood, located in a side altar that dates back to the 15th-16th century.
Author’s recommendation
Follow the logo shown on the green signs: Claro and its Monastery / 627
A cable car departing from Claro allows easy access even for those who do not want or cannot walk.
At the Monastery's Porter's lodge, it is possible to buy cookies, jams, and honey, real homemade delicacies made by the cloistered nuns.
Those wishing to spend a few days in spiritual retreat in an atmosphere of silence and peace can contact the Monastery for appropriate arrangements.
Bellinzona e Valli Turismo Verified partner
Track types
Rest stops
Villa del Gusto (Bike friendly)Marchè Bellinzona Sud (Bike friendly)
Camping Bellinzona (Bike friendly)
Tips and suggestions
Montagnepulite: This project was born to promote the effective and sustainable management of alpine huts in the Ticino territory. In particular, waste management. Responsible waste management in the mountains is a matter of common sense. We can all contribute: hwww.montagnepulite.ch
Marchè Bellinzona Sud (Bike friendly)
E-Bike charging point - Cresciano
Monastero di Ss. Maria Assunta
Funivia Pizzo di Claro
E-Bike charging point - Lumino
Camping Bellinzona (Bike friendly)
E-Bike charging point - Arbedo-Castione
Coordinates
Equipment
- Trekking boots
- Cap
- Water bottle
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Hiking map
- Camera
- Food
Localization
Weather at the starting point
Statistics
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