Tirano

Located at the bottom of the Valtellina, on the border with Switzerland, in a strategic position that marked its troubled history, Tirano fascinates visitors with its artistic evidence and its culture, as well as for wines and gastronomy.
Artistic treasures include the Basilica of Madonna di Tirano, a superb holy building dating back to early 16th century and built after the Virgin Mary appeared here on 29th September 1504. Interesting elements of this church include the Baroque organ dating back to the 17th century, a work by Bulgarini, which impresses for its imposingness and rich details.
The story of the ancient walls is also fascinating; they were built for defence purposes by Ludwig Sforza also known as Il Moro (the Moor) at the end of the 15th century, and legend has it that they were studied by Leonardo da Vinci. The three gates still survive; Bormina, Poschiavina (recently restored) and Milanese. Also worth visiting are the ruins of the imposing tower of the Castle of Santa Maria, also called “il Castellaccio”, also built by order of Ludwig Sforza.
Many palaces embellish one of the richest historic centres of the Alps, among which Palazzo Salis, with the noble cellars and the frescoed halls, the Casa Museo D’oro Lambertenghi, Palazzo Merizzi, Palazzo Marinoni, former convent of the Augustinians (today the Town Hall). Be sure not to miss a visit to the Tiranese Ethnographic Musem, created inside the Casa del Penitenziere (House of the Penitentiary), an elegant 18th-century mansion facing Piazza Basilica.
Tirano is the ideal starting point for pleasant nature walks, or for visiting other attractions of the Valtellina and the nearby Switzerland.
Tirano is also a synonym of tradition, with the Sagra dei Chiscioi, held every year in August. It is a festival dedicated to the typical tasty pancake made with buckwheat flour and casera cheese, the town’s specialty. A curious event is the “Tirà li toli” a noisy parade of children in the village on the 31st January to say goodbye to winter and awaken spring.
Tirano's tourist attractions include the surprising trip with the Bernina Red Train, which departs from Tirano and arrives at St. Moritz, reaching 2,250m of altitude. Visitors can admire fabulous sights both in winter and in summer.