Aosta Valley

Aosta Valley (Valle d'Aosta in Italian, Vallée d'Aoste in French) is a semi-autonomous region located in the northwestern corner of Italy. It is the smallest, least populous, and least densely populated region of Italy. It is bordered by France to the west, Switzerland to the north, and the region of Piedmont to the south and east. The Aosta Valley is an alpine valley that with its side valleys includes the Italian slopes of Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn, and the Monte Rosa.

Geography

The Aosta Valley is a mountainous semi-autonomous region in northwestern Italy. It is surrounded by the Alps, with the highest peaks in Italy such as Mont Blanc, Monte Rosa, and the Matterhorn. The region covers an area of 3,263 square kilometers, and its highest point is the summit of Mont Blanc at 4,810 meters above sea level.

History

The Aosta Valley has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. It was inhabited by the Celts and then conquered by the Roman Empire. During the Middle Ages, it was a feudal state ruled by the House of Savoy. In the 19th century, it became part of the Kingdom of Italy. Today, it is a semi-autonomous region with its own regional government.

Culture

The culture of the Aosta Valley is a blend of Italian, French, and Swiss influences. The official languages are Italian and French, and the region's culture and traditions reflect its alpine heritage. The Aosta Valley is known for its castles, such as the Fenis Castle, and for its traditional festivals, such as the "Foire de Saint Ours".

Economy

The economy of the Aosta Valley is based on tourism, agriculture, and handicrafts. The region is famous for its ski resorts, such as Courmayeur and Cervinia, and for its natural parks, such as the Gran Paradiso National Park. The Aosta Valley is also known for its wines and for its traditional products, such as Fontina cheese.

See also

• List of Italian regions by GDP
• Tourism in Italy
• Italian cuisine