Ayas Valley, Alpine valley in Aosta Valley, Italy
Ayas Valley is an Alpine valley in the Pennine range that connects multiple mountain settlements across different elevations through natural passages and paths. The terrain slopes sharply, with villages scattered at various heights and linked by winding routes that follow the land's contours.
Roman forces took control of the valley around 25 BC, displacing the Salassi people who had practiced farming and herding there. This takeover marked a shift in how the region was organized and connected to broader trading networks.
The valley reflects mountain living traditions where people have built settlements that adapt to steep terrain and seasonal changes over centuries. You can observe how locals use the landscape for both farming and grazing, with buildings designed to withstand heavy snow and mountain weather.
The valley offers winter skiing through the Monterosa network of lift stations and runs spread across the settlements. Lodging options vary widely, from comfortable mountain hotels to rustic alpine huts, so visitors can choose based on their preference.
Local artisans still craft tsôques, traditional wooden shoes designed for walking safely on snowy and wet mountain slopes. This handmade footwear represents a practical solution that residents developed over time for the valley's challenging terrain.
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