Anyone wandering along the bicycle path that heads down from Prosto along Valbregaglia towards Chiavenna is in for an architectural treat in the shape of a fine piece of work by Luigi Caccia Dominioni.
It’s a recent addition to the rich cultural heritage already existing within the historic town of Chiavenna. Some splendid work during the last few months along the via Poiatengo directly behind the Piazza Castello, has produced an attractive green area which ever-so naturally enhances the path which runs alongside the canals whose water was once the driving force behind the old town’s industry.
Shades of Chiavenna returning to the roots of its industrial past, once the very heart of manufacturing activity with a range of factories and mills stretching all along the banks of the river Mera as far as the central Molinanca district.
But at the heart of this new green and pleasant patch sits a seriously-stylish fountain in white concrete, the result of some inspired work by architect Caccia Dominioni.
The piece has adopted the rather appropriate name – the Wayfarers’ Fountain.
It’s made up of three essential elements: the column at the head
is in hemispheric form from where the water gushes; attached is the spacious curviforme basin itself, whilst the third element is offset, snaking away with respect to the basin and creates a convenient seat.
Credit for this timely intervention should be placed firmly at the door of Emmezeta, the real estate company who were responsible for the nearby “Morani” complex. The entire project is clearly aimed at enhancing this fascinating area just outside the old town and has involved the reclaiming of the old canals.
To really appreciate the new setting we recommend a visit in the evening when the ad-hoc arrangement of lighting comes into its own and really emphasises the line and form of the fountain itself, but also plays on the elegant arches of the diverting channels and restored cascades.
The area incorporating the garden and Caccia Dominioni’s splendid fountain now serves as a welcoming entrée to the town for the many visitors who turn up along the Valbregaglia cycle route - a magnificent stretch linking Prosto to the old town.
