Maira, Alpine creek in Cottian Alps, Piedmont, Italy.
The Maira is an Alpine creek flowing through the Cottian Alps in Piedmont, extending for about 120 kilometers from the mountains. It travels downward through the region and joins the Po River near Lombriasco.
In ancient Roman times, this waterway was recorded in texts as Macra and maintained its importance for regional geography. This early mention shows how long it has shaped the landscape.
The name Maira comes from Occitan and Piedmontese languages, reflecting descriptions of the stream's lean or narrow flow. This linguistic connection shows how deeply local communities related to the water.
The creek displays typical Alpine patterns with high water levels during spring snowmelt and weaker flow in summer months. The best time to explore is late spring and early summer when the water is visible but conditions are safe for walking.
The creek winds through small mountain villages like Acceglio, Prazzo, and Stroppo before reaching its main valley. Along its course, you encounter narrow gorges where the water tumbles impressively between rock walls.
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