Caldes
An ancient town surrounded by colourful apple orchards
Farming and tourism are Caldes' twin highlights. Caldes is marked by its colourful apple orchards and dotted with monuments of historical worth, such as Castel Caldes, which dates back to the 13th Century, and the Rocca di Samoclevo. The town also features many tourist and recreational facilities, some of which are located on the banks of River Noce and belong to the Contre complex, with its tennis courts, football, basketball and volleyball pitches, country party area, bar, and a green park.
Caldes lies at the heart of a rather extensive municipality, featuring seven municipal districts ranging from Bozzanto - 689 m above sea level - to San Giacomo - 755 m above sea level. The hamlets of Bozzana, Bordiana, San Giacomo and Samoclevo are all clustered around age-old "Cappelle" (Chapels) showcasing Gothic and Baroque pieces and altars.
According to some parchments dating back to 200 AD, the town's former name of "Caldis" or "Caldesio" apparently results from an hot water spring, which now is no more.