Ecomuseum of the Lombardy Apennines ‘Il Grano in Erba’: living history in the mountains of Oltrepò Pavese

In the heart of the Lombardy Apennines, between Santa Margherita di Staffora, Brallo di Pregola, Menconico and Romagnese, lies the ‘Il Grano in Erba’ Eco-museum: a cultural and territorial project that recounts the mountain civilisation of the Oltrepò Pavese, combining memory, nature, rural architecture and authentic flavours.

Cover image taken from the website of the Municipality of Santa Margherita di Staffora

A territory that speaks three languages: Lombardy, Piedmont, Liguria

The ecomuseum is located in a corner of Lombardy nestled between Piedmont, Emilia and Liguria, from which it has absorbed history, architecture and traditions. These mountains were once a natural bridge to the sea, crossed by nobles, merchants and pilgrims. Today, in the stone courtyards, the paved roads and the silence of the alpine pastures, the authentic identity of the area can be found.

The meaning of ‘budding wheat

The very name of the ecomuseum is a metaphor: ‘Il Grano in Erba’ recalls the idea of a fertile land, ready to generate new life. It is the local community that has transformed its history into a resource, enhancing it to build a future and awareness. Here, every object, every flavour, every stone tells a story.

An experiential journey through history, flavours and landscapes

The eco-museum proposes a widespread experience of villages, paths and ancient crafts. Among the symbolic places:

• Ancient water mills, still working
• The Roman Furnace, memory of ancient ingenuity
• The Museum of Rural Civilisation, which houses tools, customs and rituals of rural life
• The Sanctuary of the Madonna del Bocco, a place of spirituality and tradition

Among the most evocative routes are the Via del Sale, an ancient trade route, and the Sentiero del Brigante, which tells dark and legendary stories.

Tastes not to be missed

In a setting of unspoilt nature, you can savour some of the excellence of the Pavia Apennines:

• Salame di Varzi PDO
• Cheese from Casale and Brallo
• Alpine meats
• Mushrooms, truffles and almond cakes, symbols of poor cuisine but rich in taste

Where it is located

📌 Frazione Casanova Destra n.1, Santa Margherita di Staffora (PV)
🗺️ The ecomuseum embraces the municipalities of Santa Margherita di Staffora, Brallo di Pregola, Menconico and Romagnese.