Sampeyre

Access

The municipality is accessible via the Varaita Valley regional road, which connects Sampeyre with the main centres in the province of Cuneo. The town can be reached from Saluzzo in about 35 km, following the mountain road that passes through historic villages. The area is served by regular bus services to Cuneo and Saluzzo; the nearest railway station is Costigliole Saluzzo. Cuneo Levaldigi airport is just over 60 km away, while by car it is advisable to check the road conditions during the winter months for possible snowfall, especially on the access routes to the higher hamlets.

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Introduction

Sampeyre, located in the picturesque Varaita valley in the province of Cuneo, is one of the main mountain centres in the Piedmont Alpine area. The municipal territory stretches over a wide range of altitudes and secondary valleys, articulating its orography between the valley floor and the slopes rising towards the peaks of the Cottian Alps. The landscape is characterised by forests, pastures and numerous streams, and offers extensive views of the surrounding mountains. Sampeyre is recognised as a starting point for numerous hiking routes and as a cultural crossroads in the valley, thanks to the presence of numerous historic hamlets.

Description

The history of Sampeyre has its roots in pre-Roman times, inhabited by the Liguri Montani and later by the Gauls. The discovery of silver coins near the church of San Chiaffredo attests to the Roman presence, followed in the 5th century by the arrival of the Goths and, in the 10th century, the Saracen invasion. From that episode derives the famous historical re-enactment of the Baìo, a five-year festival in which the entire community participates in a spectacular costume parade that emphasises traditions, local legends and the spirit of belonging. In the following centuries, the territory was influenced by the Marquises of Saluzzo and the Savoy domination, as witnessed by historical buildings such as Casa Clary from the 15th century and the parish church of Saints Peter and Paul, which preserves interesting frescoes and sacred works of art.
Sampeyre's economy, historically based on mountain agriculture and sheep farming, has evolved since the 1960s with the development of seasonal tourism. Today, the municipality offers services for hikers, accommodation centres, cultural and traditional events that favour a visit that respects natural and identity resources. Small local craft businesses are active, while industrial activities remain limited. The majority of the population resides in scattered hamlets, keeping linguistic (Occitan and Piedmontese) and religious traditions alive, mainly Catholic.
Culturally relevant, Sampeyre is famous for the Baìo, one of the oldest re-enactments in the Alps, and for the presence of numerous churches, chapels and artistic testimonies. Patronal festivals, seasonal fairs and the preparation of typical dishes based on local products punctuate community life, in which craftsmanship is a distinctive feature. The excursionist heritage is rich: trails that go up the valley to the alpine refuges, routes to Mount Bert, panoramic itineraries and historical routes allow enthusiasts to immerse themselves in intact and fascinating environments. Cycling and cross-country skiing are also popular in the winter season.

Information

Area: 98.91 km²
Altitude: 998m
Maximum elevation: 2,394m - Monte Bert
Number of inhabitants: 1.004 (2023)
Name in dialect: San Pèire (Piedmontese/Occitan)
Name in dialect: Sampeyresi
Patron Saint: Saints Peter and Paul, celebrated on 29 June
Bordering municipalities: Brossasco, Casteldelfino, Elva, Frassino, Macra, Oncino, Stroppo, Bellino, Melle, San Damiano Macra
Website: www.comune.sampeyre.cn.it