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Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
Italy
Lombardy
Bergamo
Mapello

Monte Canto Loop

Moderate

4.5

(65)

223

hikers

Monte Canto Loop

04:01

13.3km

420m

Hiking

Hike a moderate 8.3-mile (13.3 km) loop from Brembate, visiting the historic Abbey of Fontanella and the Santuario della Madonna di Prada.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

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1

6.09 km

Borgo del Canto Ruins

Highlight • Historical Site

Among the most interesting stories linked to Borgo del Canto there is certainly that of Don Virgilio Galizzi.

Born in Leffe on 22 November 1886 and died in Pontida on 29 December 1952, Don Galizzi is considered a priest, healer and exorcist.

Numerous anecdotes are linked to his figure that tell of his particular talents.

Sent in the first decades of the twentieth century to preside over the small district of Canto, he settled in the rectory near the small church of Santa Barbara, sharing the daily hardships of peasant life with his villagers.

Of a fierce and determined character, it is said that he repeatedly went down to the town of Pontida to convince the mayor to build a road that would bring the village out of isolation and to demand connection to the electricity line.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

2

6.22 km

Church of Santa Barbara at Borgo del Canto

Highlight • Religious Site

The church of Santa Barbara is a hidden treasure of Mount Canto, located a few meters from the remains of the ghost town of Canto. The church is the only surviving building kept in perfect condition. It offers a spectacular panoramic view, where on very clear weather days you can admire the Apennines to the south and the chain of Alps from Monviso to the Bernina glaciers to the west and north. The church is surrounded by an open space with benches and trees, an ideal place for a break or a picnic.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

3

8.31 km

Abbey of Saint Egidio in Fontanella

Highlight • Religious Site

The Abbey of Sant'Egidio in Fontanella is a fascinating place full of history. The church suddenly appears at the end of a winding road up the eastern slope of Mount Canto. Its architecture is simple, with a sobriety typical of poor foundations in the province. It can also be visited inside.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

4

9.65 km

Ca' Volpera

Highlight • Religious Site

Beautiful walk through the woods and vineyards

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Tip by

5

11.6 km

Sanctuary of Our Lady of Prada

Highlight • Religious Site

The Sanctuary of the Madonna di Prada (from the dialect, "of the meadows") is located outside the town of Mapello, a locality on the Bergamo island, an area bounded by the Brembo and Adda rivers.

The sanctuary is immersed in the vast plain on the eastern slopes of Monte Canto, still surrounded by a natural setting with a high landscape value.

The Marian sanctuary of Prada is introduced by a suggestive tree-lined avenue 500 meters long.

(visitbergamo.net/it/dettagli-oggetto/8520-santuario-della-madonna-di-prada/)

Translated by Google •

Tip by

B

13.3 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.93 km

2.41 km

2.37 km

1.46 km

1.19 km

940 m

Surfaces

6.06 km

4.09 km

1.94 km

585 m

410 m

212 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (650 m)

Lowest point (250 m)

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Friday 15 May

19°C

8°C

42 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it typically take to complete the From Brembate to the Abbey of Fontanella and the Madonna di Prada - Ring tour?

The tour is estimated to take around 4 hours and 1 minute to complete. However, if you include a deviation to visit the Church of Santa Barbara, the entire loop might extend to about 5 hours.

What is the difficulty level of this hiking trail?

This is classified as a moderate excursion. It requires a good level of training and sure footing, as it includes some steep sections, despite predominantly accessible paths.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?

The trail offers varied terrain. You'll encounter natural paths (about 6.06 km), paved sections (around 4.09 km), asphalt roads (about 1.94 km), some alpine terrain (roughly 410 meters), and dirt roads (212 meters). Specific path types include hiking trails, general paths, secondary roads, alpine hiking trails, and sidewalks.

What are the main points of interest along the trail?

The route connects several significant sites. You'll pass by the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Prada, the Abbey of Saint Egidio in Fontanella, and the Church of Santa Barbara at Borgo del Canto. The Borgo del Canto Ruins are also along the way, offering a mix of historical and religious sites within natural settings and vineyards.

Is the From Brembate to the Abbey of Fontanella and the Madonna di Prada - Ring tour dog-friendly?

While the trail is generally accessible, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with varied terrain, near historical sites, or when passing through villages. There are no specific restrictions mentioned against dogs.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail offers diverse scenery, transitioning from natural landscapes to cultural sites. Spring and autumn are generally ideal for hiking in this region, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful colors in the wooded areas and vineyards. Summer can be warm, so an early start is advisable.

Are there any permits or entrance fees required for this hike?

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike this trail or visit the religious sites along the route. Access to the natural areas and historical buildings is generally free.

Where can I park to access the trailhead?

While the starting point is Brembate, specific parking information isn't detailed. However, for tours involving the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Prada, starting from there often involves an avenue leading to the historic center of Mapello, suggesting parking might be available in or near these villages.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Via della Scalinata, Località Ca' Volper, and Via del Volontario.

What kind of views can I expect along the way?

Despite predominantly wooded areas, the trail offers picturesque views of vineyards and the surrounding plains, especially in the Isola Bergamasca area. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Prada is particularly noted for its natural setting of high landscape value.

Are there any local secrets or tips for this trail?

The route, particularly following path 891, is described as well-marked with clear indications, making navigation straightforward. Consider taking the suggested deviation to the Church of Santa Barbara at Borgo del Canto for an extended experience, adding about an hour to your hike.

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Trail Reviews

Ferdinanda
January 10, 2024, Mapello, monte Canto

From Mapello to Canto, a beautiful walk a few kilometers from Bergamo, well-marked paths, many things to see, return via Madonna di Prada, worth putting on your calendar because there is much more to visit

Translated by Google
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