Orrido di Bellano, Natural gorge and waterfall in Bellano, Italy.
Orrido di Bellano is a narrow gorge with a waterfall where the Pioverna River cuts through rock walls. Walkways are built directly onto the cliff faces, letting visitors walk alongside the rushing water and see the carved stone formations all around.
The gorge was carved out over millions of years as meltwater from glaciers and the Pioverna River eroded through limestone. A stone entrance was built in the 1700s to allow people safe access into this underground world.
The stone gateway was built in the 1700s and marks the entrance to this natural wonder. Inside, the narrowness of the canyon has made it a place where visitors sense the raw power of nature unfolding around them.
The path through the gorge is not difficult, but the walkways are tight and can be slippery from moisture. Sturdy shoes and a willingness to get damp are necessary, as water spray reaches you throughout the walk.
The thundering water creates such a loud echo bouncing through the gorge that it gave the place its name, Orrido. The word means something dreadful in Italian, reflecting how overwhelming the roaring water can feel when you stand inside.
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