Markets without borders. Archaeology of the medieval economic sector in Valtellina and Valchiavenna

The orographic extension of the Alps that divides the river basins of central-southern Europe, with its particular geological conformation, does not seem to facilitate the movement of men and goods. The often hostile climatic-environmental factors, with cold periods and subsequent glacial expansions along with hot periods followed by flooding and landslides, heavily influenced but did not impede the trade and physical relationships of populations over the centuries. Based on these considerations a distinction must be made between the primary routes crossing this area – mainly north to south – hence confirming that the Alps never constituted an insurmountable barrier, and the secondary roads used as alternatives to satisfy various needs.