According to tradition, the San Bernardo sanctuary on Monte Rubello was built in the 14th century in a mere 50 hours using the remains of Dolcinian fortifications to celebrate victory over Fra Dolcino.
In the Middle Ages, Fra Dolcino, the heretic friar mentioned by Dante Alighieri in the Divine Comedy, sought refuge in the mountains around Trivero and fought his last battle here before being caught and condemned to the stake together with his partner Margherita.
The ancient oratory, extended over the centuries, took on its present form in 1948, when it was enlarged on the initiative of Ermenegildo Zegna.
Easy to reach on foot from Bocchetta di Stavello or Bocchetta di Margosio, it offers splendid views of the Po Valley and the Alps.
Around the site of these historical events, there’s a 2-day trek from Bocchetta di Stavello to Alpe Peccia.
