Bormio, in the heart of the Alta Valtellina, is known as La Magnifica Terra (the Magnificent Land) for the thousand-year history that has shaped its territory and culture. In winter, the passion for skiing finds its place here, and it is no coincidence that the Stelvio slope has been called the ‘Teatro alla Scala of winter sports’. Folklore in Bormio is a serious matter and, precisely during this time of year, it is easy to come across ancient revivals, folk traditions and processions that pass through the ‘contrade’ (districts).

In one of these ancient districts, that of Combo, a wooden crucifix of legendary origins is kept, to which miraculous powers are attributed. We are talking about the Holy Crucifix in the church of St Anthony Abbot. Legend has it that an inhabitant of Valfurva escaped a thunderbolt that struck the tree under which he had sought shelter. On the trunk broken by the thunderbolt, the shepherd recognized the figure of Christ, so, for the grace received, he carved the crucifix into it.