Borgo Valsugana, the village that runs along the banks of the Brenta

Among the most beautiful villages in Italy, Borgo Valsugana rises in the heart of Trentino-Alto Adige, along the Brenta River. With its 1,600 inhabitants, the historic center tells centuries of history linked to the valley’s strategic position, a natural crossroads between Veneto and Trentino. The name derives from the Latin Vallis Ausuganea, “valley of Ausugum,” the ancient Roman name of the village, which flourished thanks to the Via Claudia Augusta that connected Altino to Augusta.

In the Middle Ages, the town experienced dominations and disputes, witnessed by the imposing Castel Telvana, which still watches from above. Borgo was struck by wars, fires, and bombings, yet always managed to rise again, preserving its authentic charm. Streets such as Via Ausugum or Via Fratelli recount the collective memory of a resilient community.

Also linked to the figure of statesman Alcide De Gasperi, Borgo Valsugana combines culture, nature, and tradition, offering visitors a unique journey between past and present.

What to see in the Trentino village 

Walking through the historic center of Borgo Valsugana means discovering a true “natural shopping center,” rich in shops, evocative arcades, and views along the Brenta, dominated by the charm of the 15th-century Venetian Bridge. Here history is alive, between the Archpriest Church of the Nativity of Mary, the Oratory of San Rocco with its 16th-century frescoes, and the graceful Church of Sant’Anna, one of the few to survive the great fire of 1862.

The village is also a reference point for contemporary art. In nearby Val di Sella, since 1986, Arte Sella has come to life—an international open-air exhibition, famous for the majestic Cattedrale Vegetale. In Borgo itself, the project intertwines with the SkyMuseum, bringing installations by artists such as Tresoldi and Le Borgne into the streets of the town.

On the heights, the imposing Castel Telvana tells centuries of medieval events and offers splendid views of the valley. From here depart itineraries such as the Sentiero dei Bersaglieri, winding between nature and historical memory. Not far away, the Rocchetta has been a panoramic and strategic observation point since antiquity.

Events in Borgo Valsugana 

The calendar of Borgo Valsugana is rich in events that combine tradition, history, and entertainment. In July, the village celebrates its patron saint with the Feast of San Prospero: rides, games, and food stalls enliven the historic center, creating a festive atmosphere for young and old.

In August, the last week is dedicated to the evocative Palio dela Brenta, a historical reenactment that recalls the 16th century, when the town was divided between the Semoloti and the Farinoti. Costumed parades, ancient games, and challenges between the two factions transform Borgo into an open-air theater.

September is the month of the Coppa d’Oro, a famous youth cycling race, unique of its kind: the boys race for their sports director, symbolically awarded with a five-lira coin.

What to see in the surroundings

 The surroundings of Borgo Valsugana offer natural landscapes and historic villages to discover. The nearby Val di Sella hosts the renowned Arte Sella, an open-air museum among woods and mountains. For walking enthusiasts, the Sentiero dei Bersaglieri and the Rocchetta offer panoramic views of the valley and the Brenta. Not far away, Castel Ivano and the village of Roncegno Terme offer history and traditional architecture. Between rivers, forests, and alpine trails, the area is ideal for excursions, cycling, and relaxation immersed in nature, without giving up culture and tradition.

Cover photo credits: Dario Racane