The Bocchetto Sesserra Mines

In the heart of the upper Valsessera, near Bocchetto Sessera, lies an area that combines nature and history. Today, these places form part of the Oasi Zegna, but in the past they were the scene of intense mining activity, traces of which are still visible along the footpaths.

Mining dates back at least to the late Middle Ages and flourished between the 18th and 19th centuries. Iron, copper, lead and even small quantities of silver and gold were found in these mountains. The mines were an important resource for the local economy, although the profits were never particularly high compared with the costs of extraction.

As you walk along the paths leading from Bocchetto Sessera, you can see the remains of tunnels, kilns and processing facilities. Places such as Argentera or the Rondolere area bear witness to genuine proto-industrial activity, now hidden amidst the vegetation. Over time, nature has reclaimed these spaces, but without completely erasing the traces of the past.