Fontainemore

Europe

Italy

Access

The town is easily accessible from Pont-Saint-Martin, either by car via the Valle del Lys regional road (motorway exit on the [A5] at Pont-Saint-Martin), or by regional bus service: the journey by car takes about 15 minutes from the toll booth, while the nearest railway station is Pont-Saint-Martin on the Aosta-Turin line. Reference airports are the regional 'Corrado Gex' airport in Aosta (55 km), Turin-Caselle (68 km) and Milan Malpensa (124 km), linked by private or public transfer services to the Lys Valley centres.

Introduction

Fontainemore is a charming mountain village located in the middle of the Lys Valley, in Valle d'Aosta, at an altitude of 760 metres and surrounded by an area that alternates between forests, alpine pastures and charming rural villages. Recognised in 2023 as one of the 'Most Beautiful Villages in Italy', the village stands out for its authentic character and the presence of a rich tangible and intangible heritage. The historic core, gathered on the banks of the Lys stream and united by an elegant medieval bridge, bears witness to the hamlet's peculiar identity. The origins of the name 'Fontainemore' hark back to ancient traditions and legends: it may derive from the Latin fons Maurum, linked to Saracen settlements, from the 'dark fountain' located behind the church, or from the miracle of Saint Maurus, who, according to tradition, in 543 caused a spring to gush forth in the heart of the village. In the Middle Ages, Fontainemore was the administrative centre of the Lords of Vallaise and still retains traces of this function today. Its position on the border between the Walser and Franco-Provençal areas gives the small town a precious cultural and ethno-linguistic variety, which is also well represented by local legends such as that of the giant Guillaume, protagonist of the Guillemore Gorge.

Description

The landscape surrounding Fontainemore spreads across the sunny slopes enclosing the central part of the Lys Valley, dominated by the presence of the Mont Mars Nature Reserve. Here, dense coniferous forests, pastures, peat bogs and alpine lakes follow one another, providing valuable habitats for a rich and often endemic biodiversity. The village itself has a compact structure, flanked by several hamlets distributed at different altitudes, connected by ancient mule tracks. The highest elevation is represented by the peak of Mont Mars (2,600 m), which towers over the municipal territory and provides the backdrop for excursions with a strong impact on the landscape and nature.
The history of Fontainemore is intertwined with that of the Vallaise family, who administered the valley from the 12th to the 18th century, leaving traces in the village that are still legible, such as the remains of the court and prisons in Colombit. The village is also known for the migratory tradition of the 'maçons', the bricklayers who in past centuries worked seasonally abroad, a heritage of manual skills and knowledge that has marked the local identity. The foundation in 1678 of the first public rural school in Valle d'Aosta, on the initiative of Jean Pierre Aguettaz, is notable. The economic fabric reflects the typical characteristics of small Alpine communities: the presence of small farms, sheep-farming, dairy production and the promotion of typical products; hiking and nature tourism meets a growing demand for authentic and sustainable experiences.
Fontainemore's cultural roots are manifest in heartfelt celebrations such as that of Saint Anthony Abbot, the town's patron saint, and the historic procession to the Sanctuary of Oropa, which has involved the community for centuries. Also worthy of note are the local crafts, popular festivals and culinary specialities linked to the valley's farming traditions. Typical dishes include rustic soups and preparations based on local cheeses. The parish church of Sant'Antonio Abate is an important religious and artistic landmark, enriched by a 17th century wooden portal and a late Gothic bell tower; the fountain linked to the miracle of San Mauro is also located here. Of particular interest is the Orrido di Guillemore, a wild gorge carved by the Lys and associated with legends of giants, as well as the Chapel of Kiry, built in the 19th century by 'maçons' returning from seasonal emigrations.
Fontainemore is a major destination for hiking enthusiasts. The Mont Mars Nature Reserve (390 hectares) offers a variety of trails suitable for both experienced hikers and families: don't miss the loop around Lake Vargno, the ascent to the Coda Refuge, the trails among marmots, golden eagles and spectacular alpine panoramas. In the winter, the landscape lends itself to snowshoe or ski-mountaineering itineraries, while in the summer months the protagonists are walks among alpine pastures and flower-filled glades. The medieval bridge, ancient mule tracks and scattered villages contribute to the authentic dimension of the experience, integrating nature, history and local legends. For children and families, the Adventure Park offers activities among trees and ziplines, making Fontainemore a multifaceted destination suitable for all ages

Information

Area:31.71 sq. km
Altitude:760m
Maximum elevation: Mont Mars (2,600m)
Number of inhabitants:436 (as of 30.11.24)
Name in dialect: Fontènemore
Inhabitants name: fontainemorains
Patron Saint: Saint Anthony Abbot (17 January)
Internet site: www.comune.fontainemore.ao.en
Bordering municipalities: Andorno Micca, Biella, Issime, Lillianes, Pollone, Sagliano Micca

Points of interest

The parish church of Sant'Antonio Abate