Story behind the tiny ‘Scottish village' in the Italian Alps with just 300 people
CALEDONIAN CONNECTION Story behind the tiny 'Scottish village' in the Italian Alps with just 300 people
ITALY and Scotland have shared close ties over the years, with thousands of Italians emigrating to Scotland over the past 150 years.
The influx in the late 19th century sparked a lasting love affair in Scotland with Italian cuisine, as many people settled and opened ice cream parlours and restaurants serving up pizza and pasta dishes.
3
Gurro in northern Italy near the border with Switzerland has Scottish connections
Credit: Getty
3
Legend has it that hundreds of years ago Scottish soldiers got snowbound in Gurro and never left
Credit: Getty
Others started up fish and chip shops, cafes, and hairdressing businesses.
But nestled in the foothills of the Italian Alps is a unique little village with a distinctive Scottish feel.
Gurro in the Piedmont region of northern Italy is said to be home to the descendants of Scottish soldiers.
A small unit called the Gardes Écossaises, which translates to the Scottish Guards, travelled to Italy to fight alongside the French king.
But during the Battle of Pavia in February, 1525, Francis I of France was captured during the conflict.
The Scottish troops fled the region and as they made their way back home they passed through Gurro.
Legend has it that they got stuck in the village during a snowstorm and decided to stay and put down roots.
Today, Gurro is home to around just 300 residents but there are still clues to be found reflecting its Caledonian connection.
Saltires can be found decorating parts of the village and locals have a unique dialect.
It is understood that residents of nearby residents struggle to understand some of the Gurro vocabulary, with Gaelic said to have an influence.
Inside Italy's most Scottish town
But one of the biggest giveaways is the underskirts of traditional dresses worn by some older women.
It features a distinctive chequered pattern, similar to tartan.
Some locals use the word "aye" as a way of saying "yes", instead of using the Italian word "si".
Gurro is not the only settlement in Italy with Scottish links.
Barga in Tuscany, is known as 'the most Scottish town in Italy'.
Many of the town's locals moved to Scotland around the end of the 19th century.
Throughout the 20th century, some of the migrants returned to the idyllic area.
Some locals in Barga can trace their ancestry back to Scotland and there's even a red telephone box in the town.
Cockenzie, Longniddry, Port Seton and Prestonpans in East Lothian have been twinned with Barga since 2006.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Scottish Sun
3 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
Cheeky 48-hour holidays to Europe's best cities, beach towns and islands this summer from £167
Read on to learn more of trips to Athens, Ibiza, Milan and beyond IN EASY REACH Cheeky 48-hour holidays to Europe's best cities, beach towns and islands this summer from £167 THEY'RE weekend wonders – four-hour flight breaks to Europe's most exciting destinations. A cheeky two-night getaway won't break the bank and it provides a perfect escape without chipping into your holiday allowance. 3 Shop 'til you drop in pretty Paris Credit: Getty Lisa Minot presents her pick of 48-hour getaways for this summer – whether you want to explore a city or just recharge on a beach. CITY Paris from £167pp August is a great time to visit the French capital as its residents head away for their annual summer breaks and the crowds are fewer. The H4 Hotel Wyndham Paris Pleyel Resort offers great value as it's in the suburb of Saint-Denis with excellent train links to the city and an ideal quieter retreat after pounding the busy streets of central Paris. Room-only, with flights from Southampton on August 1. See Milan from £189pp There's a lovely courtyard at the 4H Devero Hotel & Spa with a large pool and restaurant terrace — perfect for a little dip after discovering the delights of this chic Italian city. Set between Milan and Bergamo, you could even head to the delights of Lake Como. Hotel is B&B. Flights from Liverpool on August 22. See Martin Lewis warns about strict passport rule that could see you board your flight - only to get sent home on arrival Prague from £245pp The Chevron Design Hotel is perfect for a quick getaway, just a short walk from the Vltava River and vibrant Andel area. The area is known for its bustling restaurants and cafes, and a tram ride away you can visit the castle and historic Lesser Town. Room-only, with flights from Luton on August 1. Find out more and book at Krakow from £283pp The Belle Epoque Residence offers stylish studios and apartments close to the historic Old Town. Just ten minutes' walk brings you to the Main Market Square, a medieval treasure and one of the biggest in Europe, while the lush greenery of Planty Park which encircles the Old Town is also a stone's throw away. Room only. Flights from Heathrow on July 18, hand luggage only. Details from Budapest from £289pp Enjoy the beauty of the city from the water with The Grand Jules Boat Hotel, moored on the Danube River on the Buda side near Margaret Bridge. You'll have easy access to attractions both sides of the river and are within walking distance of shops and restaurants. Hotel is B&B. Flights from Birmingham on August 15 with hand luggage only. See Athens from £435pp Cool off after a day's sightseeing at the Skylark, Aluma Hotel & Resorts rooftop pool and bar. This contemporary, chic 4H hotel is right in the centre of the action on Omonoia Square, and is close to the metro. Major archaeological sites are within easy reach. Hotel is B&B. Flights from Gatwick on August 8. See 3 Check out the ancient ruins of the Acropolis, Athens Credit: Getty BEACH Alicante from £275pp Live the high life in exciting Alicante at the NH Alicante with its rooftop pool promising panoramic views of the city and Santa Barbara Castle. For extra pampering, the hotel's spa has a sauna and jacuzzi in a peaceful setting. Postiguet Beach and the Old Town are a bus ride away. Stay room-only, fly from Leeds Bradford on July 25. See Magaluf from £279pp Relax on Bali beds or comfy cabanas at the great-value 3H Inn Mallorca Aparthotel with its beach-club style pool. Rooms are modern and have air con as well as a kitchenette, balcony or terrace. In the heart of Magaluf, the apartments are just a short stroll from the beach. Stay self-catering with flights from East Midlands, August 15. See Barcelona from £357pp Combine the best of both worlds with a stay where you can take in city sights and still enjoy the beach life. The 3H Oriente Atiram Hotel is right on the famous Las Ramblas street near the Gothic Quarter. The former 19th century monastery offers modern, simple rooms in the heart of the action, just 200 metres from the nearest Metro station. Stay B&B with flights from Manchseter on July 25. See 3 Find a tranquil spot on the beach in the Algarve Credit: Getty Algarve from £359pp Savour fabulous views across Faro and the Ria Normosa Natural Park from the contemporary rooftop pool of the 4H AP Eva Senses hotel. Perfect for anyone looking for a relaxed city break, the hotel is close to bars and restaurants and has a lovely outdoor freshwater pool. Stay B&B with flights from East Midlands on August 8. See Benidorm from £389pp The 3H Hotel Servigroup Pueblo is ideal for 48 hours of fun in the sun, with great entertainment and the golden sands of Levante beach on your doorstep. Benidorm's pretty Old Town is within walking distance and there's both indoor and outdoor pools to enjoy. Enjoy B&B with flights from Leeds Bradford on July 25, 22kg luggage and transfers. See Ibiza from £389pp Go beyond the clubs with a chilled stay at the 4H Invisa Hotel La Cala in the pretty town of Santa Eulalia. Known as the gastronomic capital of Ibiza, there's good food guaranteed on Restaurant Street with relaxed, al-fresco dining. The hotel is close to the beach and has a laid-back atmosphere. Stay B&B with flights from Birmingham on July 25. See
Daily Mirror
4 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Missing Brit sent chilling final text to friend before vanishing on hike
Matthew Hall, 33, has not been seen since leaving his accommodation in Chiavenna in the Alps to go for a hike - he told a friend that he had 'lost the path' during the walk The chilling final text sent by a British hiker before he went missing in Italy has been revealed. Matthew Hall, 33, has not been seen since July 9, when he set off from his hotel in Chiavenna in the Alps to go for a hike. He was supposed to fly home on Saturday but is yet to make contact, leaving his loved ones at home living what they describe as a "nightmare". Attempts to get in touch with him have so far proved unsuccessful. Now, his friend has shared the final message he received from him before his disappearance - and it appears to suggest that he had taken a wrong turn during the hike. He wrote: "I lost the path and stopped to rest". The alarm was raised by hotel's owners after he did not collect his breakfast for several days, with them initially believing he was likely leaving for early morning hikes. When he failed to show up for check-out, the owners discovered his belongings were untouched, and his backpack was not in his room. Mum Sara Foster, 62, has been anxiously waiting at home for updates from the Italian authorities - says she has been 'blown sideways' by the support she has received from Matthew's friends and the wider public. A group of his pals have flown over to join the search teams, who have spent time analysing the last photo he sent to try and pin down its exact location. Matthew's employers, Quickline Communcations in Hull, are also sending six staff members out to join the mother, who works for elderly care firm Home Instead, said: 'I feel like I'm living someone else's nightmare but I've just been blown sideways by all of his friends. I didn't know them all but I do now. "The way that they have just leapt into action has been unbelievable, it really has. I obviously realise that he's very loved. I got a message from the search team this morning – there are apparently five teams who are out looking for him. "They were just heading out after pin pointing from a photo he sent to a friend on Tuesday afternoon, and it was a picture of a cross. There's a lot of crosses but they know which one it is, so that is their starting point and we're in a better place today, we're not working blind. 'I don't know how many people are in each team but I do know that five of Matthew's friends have flown out and are there now having arrived last night, so they are going to help. And then Quickline, where Matthew works, are sending six of their staff. And then with Facebook, people are just joining in. 'I am so grateful to everyone, it's unbelievable. That's given us some hope – and he's fit, he's resourceful, so that's what's keeping me positive. "He's well travelled, and a solo traveller. He's a walker and has all the gear. We just need to find him and bring him home to safety." In an appeal published in Italian media, Matthew is described as approximately 178cm (5ft 8in) tall, of medium build, with brown hair. He had a black backpack, though it is not known what he was wearing on the day he disappeared. The 33-year-old had been staying at B&B Ploncher in Chiavenna, and police believe he may have travelled towards Savogno or Dasile from the village of Borgonuovo, or towards Pianazzola, Daloo, or Lagunch from the town he was staying in. A missing persons report has been filed in Italy, with the search involving the Carabinieri, the Guardia di Finanza, and the Alpine Rescue team. Anyone with any knowledge about his whereabouts is urged to come forward. A Foreign Office spokesperson told the Mirror: 'We are supporting the family of a British national missing in Italy.'
Scottish Sun
4 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
Scotland's most scenic island escapes with turquoise waters & white beaches revealed by travel experts
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) THE BEST scenic island escapes in Scotland have been revealed by travel experts - and many come with stunning turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. Scotland is home to a series of beautiful, hidden-gem locations that rival Caribbean coastlines, so it's no wonder that many receive nationwide attention for their beauty. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 9 The Island of Gigha, in Argyll, is home to stunning beaches Credit: Alamy 9 Tthe Slate Islands in Argyll and Bute, also ranked high in the list Credit: Alamy 9 The coastline at the northernmost point of the UK in Unst, Shetland Islands Credit: Alamy And now new research has revealed that more and more travellers are becoming interested in touring lesser-known islands. So to help those who are looking for a peaceful summer getaway that's full of natural beauty and local charm, travel experts at VisitScotland have revealed the top ten scenic island escapes across the country. These hidden-gem locations offer unforgettable experiences that are easy to reach, simple to explore, and rich in atmosphere, whilst also providing a true sense of escape. Experts at VisitScotland said: "With an ongoing appetite for meaningful travel and authentic experiences, Scotland's lesser-known islands provide the perfect escape – peaceful, scenic, and full of local character." Gigha Gigha is a stunning, remote island which can be found off the coast of Kintyre, and has a population of just over 160 people. It forms part of Argyll and Bute, and tourists are attracted to its rugged beauty, gorgeous beaches, stunning waters and incredible wildlife. The experts say: "With its white sandy beaches and clear turquoise seas, Gigha offers a tranquil island escape full of natural beauty and charm. "This island is known for its community spirit, colourful gardens, and laid-back atmosphere. "Why not stay a little longer and experience Gigha at its best? Wake to the sound of the waves, take your time exploring the enchanting Achamore Gardens, or set off on a gentle cycle along winding single-track roads. "Savour freshly caught seafood at the waterfront Boathouse restaurant, and watch for seabirds, seals, and spectacular views." GREAT SCOTTISH ISLES - A tiny UK island is set to become a new tourist attraction, with exciting plans to add luxury accommodation and other features The Slate Islands (Seil, Easdale & Luing) The Slate Islands are an archipelago of small islands in the Inner Hebrides off the west coast of Scotland, just south of Oban. The main islands are Seil, Easdale, Luing, Shuna, Torsa and Belnahua, while Scarba and Kerrera lie nearby. The travel pros say: "The Slate Islands are easy to reach and explore in one trip, each with its own character and rich slate-quarrying history. "Begin your adventure on Seil, connected to the mainland by the Atlantic Bridge. It's one of Scotland's most accessible islands, just a short drive from Oban. "Stroll around Ellenabeich's pretty harbour or take a boat trip to see local wildlife or a chance to spot the Corryvreckan Whirlpool. With coastal paths and peaceful beauty, Seil is perfect for a relaxed day out. "From Seil, hop on the passenger ferry to Easdale, a tiny, car-free island with white cottages, artist studios, and dramatic coastal views shaped by centuries of slate quarrying. "The island hosts the quirky World Stone Skimming Championships each September, but year-round, it offers a quiet retreat with sea views, seabirds and a real sense of timelessness. "To continue your island journey, return to Seil and travel south to catch the ferry to Luing. With its low-lying hills, quiet villages, and striking sea views, Luing is a peaceful escape perfect for walking, cycling, or simply soaking up the silence." ISLE GO THE Isle of Seil, which sits in the same archipelago of state islands as Easdale, has been listed on The Scottish Sun's Travel Editor Heather Lowrie's list of Scotland's most underrated islands. She said... Most people will have heard of Seil for one reason and one reason only - Princess Diana. The island, near Oban, was home of her mum Frances Shand Kydd until her death in 2004, and where she is now buried. Seil, located on the east side of the Firth of Lorn, is separated from mainland Scotland by the thinnest of sea channels, the Clachan Sound. At its narrowest point it's just over 70 feet and is accessed by Clachan Bridge, popularly known as the 'Bridge over the Atlantic'. For centuries, slate from the island's quarries was exported all over the world but today, like many UK islands, the economy is largely dependent on agriculture and tourism. Head to the main village of Ellenabeich with its cute white workers' cottages, sat at the foot of dramatic black cliffs on the westernmost tip of the island. Colonsay The remote Scottish Hebridean island of Colonsay is a gentle, two-hour ferry ride from the west coast port of Oban. It is a stunning, rugged spot and about as close to travelling back in time as you can get. The island has a population of just 124, but it still offers a rich mix of scenery and island life. For a visit there, experts suggest: At low tide, you can even venture across to Oronsay, a tidal island with gorgeous sandy beaches and a peaceful atmosphere. "Wander the golden sands of Kiloran Bay, cycle along coastal trails (Colonsay is perfect for leisurely cycling), or explore the island's fascinating heritage, including Oronsay Priory, one of Scotland's best-preserved medieval monasteries, complete with its medieval cross. For keen walkers, the Macphies challenge offers a chance to explore many different parts of the island in a single day. "When it's time for a bite to eat, stop by The Pantry or The Colonsay Restaurant and Hotel, where you can savour fresh local produce, including Colonsay's famous oysters, enjoyed straight from the fisherman or at the restaurant. "Sample excellent local craft beers from Colonsay Brewery, or try botanical gins at the Wild Island Distillery, all made with island-grown ingredients. With its friendly community and relaxed pace, Colonsay is a wonderful place to experience authentic island culture." 9 Ardfin golf course on the Ardfin Estate on the Isle of Jura, Inner Hebrides Credit: Alamy Jura This remote island is located off the mainland's west coast and is known for its huge mountains, whisky, swirling whirlpools and wild roaming deer which outnumber the residents. It is a long, narrow island, and it is famous for being the home of author George Orwell, who finished his books Animal Farm and 1984 while visiting the island. Describing the location, VisitScotland said: "Rugged, remote and utterly captivating, Jura is a wild island where deer outnumber people by 30 to one. "It's a land of dramatic coastlines, quiet lochs and the iconic Paps of Jura, three distinctive mountains that dominate the skyline. "Visit the Jura Distillery in Craighouse, take a shoreline walk, or explore hidden beaches and caves. The island also offers incredible wildlife spotting, from golden eagles to seals and red deer. "Don't miss the chance to sample Deer Island Scottish Spiced Rum and Lussa Gin, both crafted right here on Jura using local botanicals and a generous island spirit. "Despite its untamed feel, Jura is wonderfully accessible for a summer break." 9 Laig Bay on the Isle of Eigg Credit: Getty Isle of Eigg The Island of Eigg, located off the coast of western Scotland, is renowned as one of the most picturesque Hebridean Islands - sitting 10 miles south of Skye alongside Muck, Rum and Canna. It is also one of the most isolated, with just over 100 inhabitants - and no connection to the mainland's power. Yet locals have welcomed their isolation, saying there's nowhere else they'd rather live. Experts say: "Eigg is one of the Small Isles, and it's packed with personality. "Known for its striking silhouette, the island's centrepiece is the Sgùrr of Eigg, a volcanic ridge offering stunning views of Skye and Rum. "Take a walk to the top or visit the Singing Sands at Laig Bay, where the beach makes gentle sounds beneath your feet. Wildlife lovers might spot seals, dolphins and whales from the shore or on boat trips. "Eigg is proudly self-sufficient, powered almost entirely by renewable energy, and has a close-knit community known for its creativity and conservation work. The island's lively music scene is a true highlight. "From traditional ceilidhs and folk sessions to contemporary gigs featuring avant-garde, techno, and rock, there's always something to get your toes tapping." 'CHANGED MY LIFE' Locals in Island of Eigg could not be prouder of the island and many have said that moving there has been life changing for them. Cabbie Charlie Galli moved to the remote community after two heart attacks served as a "wake up call" to leave behind fast-paced mainland life. told Green Renaissance: "You wouldn't get me off here unless I'm kicking and screaming or possibly arrested - moving here is the biggest thing I could have done to change my life." He also welcomed the life-long connections people there make. He added: "I am the island's taxi - you meet people who'd you'd never expect to meet. "I don't know about everyone else but I get something from that, it's a good feeling - you meet people here that you keep in touch with for the rest of your life. "The hardest thing you've got to cope with is probably the cows - I tried to nudge one once, it took umbrage, looked at the car and booted it." Isle of Lismore The Isle of Lismore is also located in the Inner Hebrides, near Oban and has a population of around 170. The island, dubbed the Great Garden thanks to its rich soils and abundant greenery, has a medieval Parish Church, a public hall, and the award-winning Gaelic Heritage Centre and Museum. VisitScotland experts say: "It's a paradise for walkers, cyclists and anyone looking to slow down and soak up the scenery. "Join a local guide to explore historic landmarks such as Achanduin Castle, St Moluag's Cathedral, and the island's impressive Tirefour broch. "The single-track roads are perfect for cycling, offering peaceful routes with dramatic views of Ben Nevis and the Morvern hills. "Drivers should take extra care and allow plenty of time, as local life comes first, and the roads are shared by everyone - residents, visitors, walkers and wildlife. "Whether you're wildlife watching, picnicking in wildflower meadows, or kayaking along the sheltered coast, Lismore makes for a rewarding day out." Eriskay Visitors love Eriskay for its white sands at Coileag a' Phrionnsa - where Bonnie Prince Charlie first set foot on Scottish soil in 1745. It's small enough to explore on foot and has wide grasslands where the protected rare breed of Eriskay Ponies with their distinctive grey coat roam freely. The travel pros say: "With a population of roughly 200 people, Eriskay enchants visitors with its white beaches and sparkling turquoise waters. "Walk through the main village and make sure to stop by its friendly pub, which was made famous by Whisky Galore and the sinking of the SS Politician and its precious cargo of whisky. "Take time to explore, savour the tranquillity, and keep an eye out for otters and seals along the shore." 9 Caledonian Macbrayne ferry arrives at the port on the island of Eriskay from Barra Credit: Alamy Canna The Isle of Canna in the Inner Hebrides is reportedly home to just 18 people and is perfect for those who love some peace and quiet. Canna is home to 20,000 breeding seabirds such as the puffin, with most of the island is a Site of Special Scientific Interest thanks to its geographical and biological importance. TravelScotland describe it as: "Often called 'The Garden of the Hebrides', Canna is a peaceful island full of wildlife and rich history. "This island has been inhabited for over 7,000 years, dating back to 5000 BC, and today supports a close-knit crofting community that continues the tradition of island life. "Life on Canna moves at its own gentle pace, inviting you to slow down and truly connect with nature. It's a fantastic place for wildlife watching. "Look out for basking sharks in the waters, or spot sea eagles soaring overhead. Take time to wander through wildflower meadows, explore the fascinating Canna House and its gardens, and treat yourself to homemade cakes at the cosy island café. "With its creative spirit and regular music events, Canna is a dream for walkers, birdwatchers, and anyone looking for inspiration off the beaten track." 9 Highlanders on Canna looking to Sanday and Rum Credit: Alamy Unst Sheep outnumber the 650 locals on the Shetland island of Unst, which is Scotland's most northerly inhabited island. Life is tough on the remote island, with an average temperature of 13C, near-constant gales and just five hours of winter daylight. But the island, which measures a mere 11 miles by three, is full of history and is one of the best spots across the globe for stargazers. Travel pros say: "Unst is a wild and wonderful place where impressive cliffs meet ancient Viking history and untouched natural beauty. "Here, you can marvel at the jagged sea stacks of Muckle Flugga and the iconic lighthouse perched at Britain's northern tip. "Step back in time at the Unst Heritage Centre, which brings the island's rich past to life, or experience Norse life for yourself inside a reconstructed Viking longhouse, complete with longship. "Unst is a true paradise for wildlife lovers. At Hermaness National Nature Reserve, you'll find spectacular colonies of gannets, puffins, and great skuas, while along the shore, you might spot playful otters. Don't miss the sight of hardy Shetland ponies grazing peacefully in the fields. "It's one of Scotland's best places for stargazing, with exceptionally dark skies and very little light pollution. Experience the awe-inspiring Sky Trail and take in glittering constellations and the Milky Way. The island is also leading the way in space tourism. "At SaxaVord Spaceport, Unst is on track to host the UK's first vertical rocket launch into orbit and a new visitor centre also opened this year." 9 Skaw Beach on the island of Unst on Shetland Credit: Alamy Isle of May The Isle of May is a tourist island in the outer Firth of Forth where Atlantic puffins flock each year for the breeding season. Throughout spring, the island is home to more than 80,000 pairs of birds nesting, including more than 40,000 puffins. The high west cliffs are home to guillemots, razorbills, shags and kittiwakes, while more than 1,200 female eider ducks nest across the reserve. Describing it, VisitScotland say: "Located at the edge of the Firth of Forth, the Isle of May is a true wildlife sanctuary, packed with character and stories from centuries past. "In early summer, the island's cliffs are alive with thousands of seabirds nesting side by side, and it's a real treat to watch puffins popping in and out of their grassy burrows. "You might even spot seals on the rocks below. "NatureScot manages the island as a National Nature Reserve, welcoming visitors to a friendly visitor centre with panoramic views across the harbour. "You'll find information about the latest wildlife sightings, plus fascinating stories and displays about the island's nature and heritage, both inside the centre and along outdoor trails. "The best time to see the bustling seabird colonies is June and July."
