Charvensod The beak of Nona
Along the banks of the Dora.
Becca di Nona: An Alpine Icon Visible from Aosta Discover Becca di Nona, an imposing peak in the Graian Alps that rises 3142 meters above sea level, dominating the panorama of the Aosta Valley and offering a unique natural spectacle for the residents and visitors of Aosta.
This mountain not only captures the eye for its majesty, but is also shrouded in a fascinating history that reflects local culture and traditions.
The Majesty of Becca di Nona A Natural Landmark Easily visible from Aosta, Becca di Nona stands out in the mountain landscape due to its prominent position and imposing height.
Looking south, it is interesting to note how the Becca di Nona is positioned in front of Mount Emilius, its taller “companion,” creating a fascinating play of silhouettes against the background of the sky.
History and Legends Origins of the Name In the past, Becca di Nona was known as “Pic de douze heures” (“Peak of twelve hours”), while nearby Mount Emilius was called “Pic de dix heures” (“Peak of ten hours”).
These names perhaps reflected the position of the sun in relation to the peaks at certain times of the day, according to an ancient local custom.
Canonical Traditions and the Becca di Nona The current name, “Becca di Nona,” is linked to a tradition of the canons of the Cathedral of Aosta.
It is said that in ancient times, when eleven o’clock struck, the canons celebrated the office des nones, during which they read a liturgical book.
At that very moment, the sun would exactly hit the tip of the Becca di Nona, solidifying the link between the mountain and the prayer time.
The Exteriors
Becca di Nona is a mountain 3142 m.a.s.l. high, included in the Graian Alps mountain range and easily visible from Aosta.The Becca stands out remarkably in the mountain landscape surrounding the capital of the Aosta Valley, and looking south, one notices that it is just ahead of its taller companion peeping out from behind: Mt. Mount Emilius. The History of the Becca di NonaIn the past, the Becca di Nona was called. “Pic de douze heures”, from the French, “Peak of the twelve hours.”.
Mentre, il vicino Mount Emilius was known as “Pic de dix heures, or “Ten o’clock peak”.
The Becca di Nona is still called this because of an ancient traditional custom of the canons of the Aosta Cathedral: long ago, when eleven o’clock struck, the canons celebrated theoffice des nones, that is, they were reading a liturgical book.
And at precisely eleven o’clock the sun was hitting the tip of the Becca di Nona.
The Ascent to the Becca di Nona
In 1892, a cast-iron sculpture of Our Lady was brought up to the top of Becca di Nona, which currently crowns the tip of this mountain.
To reach the summit, people used to start from Stack, a mountain resort located at 1814 m.a.s.l.
After 1160 meters of elevation gain and more than 4 hours of walking, we arrive at the tip of the Becca, not without effort!
Traditions at the tip of the Becca di Nona
Every year, a race is organized, the so-called “Becca di Nona Skyrace.”
This is a renowned competition held in the Aosta Valley on the first Sunday in September.
Numerous participants set out to conquer the summit of this mountain starting not from Stack, as is customary, but from the main square of Aosta: Émile Chanoux Square.
As a result, the elevation gain faced by competitors is considerable, and participation is recommended only for the most experienced and trained.
We also recommend that you turn your gaze in the direction of the Becca di Nona every year on the evening of June 29.
On the occasion of the celebration of the two apostles, Saints Peter and Paul, on all major points visible from Aosta fires are lit.
On this occasion, a night trip is also organized up to the top of Becca di Nona, to light the tip of this peak and show the bonfire even to the inhabitants of the more distant valleys.
A magnificent anniversary not to be missed!
