Val Camonica - History

History

The Valle Camonica likely became habitable only around 15,000 years ago in the end of last ice age; when the melting glaciers carved out the valley. The first inhabitants likely visited the valley in epipaleolithic times, and appeared to have settled by the Neolithic period. When Ancient Romans reached north of the Po river, they encountered people called the Camunnni, of unknown origin, populating the valley. Rock Drawings in Valcamonica from this period number about 300,000 petroglyphs. By the end of the first century BCE, the Valle Camonica is ruled by Ancient Rome, which establishes the city of Cividate Camuno, with baths, and amphitheater and a large sanctuary of Minerva.

During the Middle Ages, numerous clashes between the Guelphs and Ghibellines parties occurred in this region. The Guelphs supported the power of the Bishop of Brescia and the papacy, while the latter sided with the Holy Roman Emperor. In 1287 the Camonica Valley rebelled from under the control by Brescia, and sided with the Visconti of Milan, who extended their control over the area during the 14th century. From 1427 to 1454 there were numerous battles between the Republic of Venice and Milan for the control of the valley. Ultimately the Valley came under the control of Venice. During following centuries, the civilian population grew and engaged in the trade of Iron.

After the defeat of Venice by Napoleon in 1797, it was detached from Venice. With the deposition of Naploleon, the area was controlled by the Austro-Hungarian empire. In 1859, the Val Camonica was annexed to the Kingdom of Italy. During World War I battle lines stretched along the east border of Val Camonica, across the Adamello Group. The battles fought in this area are known as White war in Adamello.

In 1955, the National Park of Naquane stone carvings in Capo di Ponte was founded by the Archaeological Superintendence of Lombardy.