In Biasca, cultural history and landscape unfold on different timescales: Casa Cavalier Pellanda was built in 1586 as a stately residence, while walks range from a short stroll to Cascata di Santa Petronilla to a Via Francisca stage lasting just over five hours. Churches, chapels and a military museum add to the range of things to explore during a stay.
Biasca between valleys and a waterfall
Biasca is a village and municipality in Ticino, belonging to the Riviera district and circle. It lies at the meeting point of the Riviera, Blenio and Leventina valleys. The municipality extends beyond the village: it includes the left bank of the Ticino where the Brenno flows into it, and also takes in the Val Pontirone. Its eastern peaks reach almost 3,000 metres above sea level.
The Ri della Froda rises on the Alpe di Lago below Cima di Biasca and forms Cascata di Santa Petronilla above Biasca. The waterfall is described as the highest in Ticino. It can be reached from Piazza Centrale in Biasca via a walk of about 20 minutes; as trail conditions can change, check them before setting out. This makes it easy to plan the waterfall as a short walk, without confusing it with a longer hiking stage.
On foot, along the Via Francisca or by e-bike
The Aquila–Biasca stage of the Via Francisca is 21 kilometres long and takes about five hours and 20 minutes on foot. Near Biasca, the Via Francisca is described as an official route leading to the Way of St James. The approximate walking time and stage length provide a different timeframe from the walk to Cascata; check the current route before setting out, as routes can change.
Another option for an active day is the Valle di Blenio e-bike route. It starts in Biasca and passes through Malvaglia and Semione. Check the specific route conditions before setting off.
The Stations of the Cross are both a religious and cultural route: its 14 stations are used to contemplate the Passion of Christ. Biasca also has a chestnut grove. From the church complex of Saints Peter and Paul, a Stations of the Cross route leads to the Oratorio di Santa Petronilla; it was restored between 1991 and 1997.
Churches, chapels and local history
The Church of San Pietro e Paolo dates from the 11th century and was first mentioned in 1213 as the parish church for the Blenio, Leventina and Ticino valleys. Its frescoes date from the 13th and 14th centuries and probably from the mid-17th century. The church’s Rosary Chapel was built in 1600 by Cav. G. B. Pellanda. Different chapters of architectural and artistic history therefore stand side by side in one church complex.
The Oratorio di Santa Petronilla is a simple 17th-century building. Frescoes in the choir and nave depict scenes from the life of Saint Petronilla, musical angels and votive images. The oratory stands above the village centre on a plateau of particular scenic beauty. The area was the setting for the signing of the Carta di Biasca on 1 January 1292, which recorded the rights of the community.
The Church of S. Carlo has a different architectural profile: it is the only example of Biasca-style architecture in Ticino with a central cruciform plan. Its furnishings include a mid-18th-century painting depicting Saint Anthony of Padua and a carved, gilded wooden tabernacle from 1697, showing Paolo Pisoni of Ascona.
Casa Cavalier Pellanda also connects local history with a contemporary cultural focus. This historic building in the old village centre was built in 1586 as a stately residence. Since 1987, it has served as the region’s main exhibition venue, hosting art and historical exhibitions. Its architectural history and current role as an exhibition space offer visitors different points of interest.
More places to visit and practical considerations
Forte Mondascia Museo Militare is housed in a fort built during the Second World War on the «LONA» military line. Exhibits include personal equipment, infantry cannons, mortars, machine guns and flamethrowers; the outdoor area features cannons, mobile artillery howitzers and mountain anti-aircraft guns, among other items. Group visits are available year-round by prior arrangement, while individual visits are possible only during events. Check the visiting conditions in advance if you are planning a specific date.
The train connection from Bellinzona is another useful planning detail: Biasca is 15 minutes away by train. Check the timetable for your travel date. If you are planning a stay that combines culture and trails, you can weigh your activity options by walking time, historical interest and the relevant visiting conditions.
Discover more destinations: Cresciano, Claro.
For the main travel overview: Riviera.
