Val Camonica
A beautiful and idyllic valley located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. The valley is surrounded by the Alps, which provide a dramatic backdrop to the landscape. The peaks are often covered in snow, especially in the winter months. During the warmer months, the valley is instead adorned with lush green vegetation. The Adda River flows through Val Camonica. Its tributaries and smaller streams crisscross the valley, creating a network of waterways. These water sources contribute to the fertility of the soil of the valley. The valley has a magical aura of 3.
Before the Romans the Camunni, who were a Rhaetian tribe, lived here. Their valley was conquered and latinized in the 1st century AD. These ancient people lived next to the Ecrustian and Celts. Before the Roman conquest the Camunni were prominent rock carvers, much of their art still remains to this day. Humans and animals are prominent themes, so is the so-called camunian rose. A particular design whose meaning has been lost to time. Of note is the engravings dubbed the “Bedolina Map” perhaps one of the first maps ever created, depicting a long gone town.
During the Roman control of the area, amphitheatres, roman baths and a Sanctuary of Minerva were constructed. The spread of christianity changed the valley. Engraving of crosses and keys started to appear next to the ancient illustrations. Christianity also led to the destruction of the ancient places of worship, statue menhirs were felled and the sanctuary was burned down and the statue of Minerva beheaded. The ruined temple with the statue still lies next to the river Oglio, in the small town of Breno. During Quinquatria, Spring Equinox, the dormant faerie aura becomes strong enough to be noticeable. During those night people with Second SIght can see the head of Minerva upon the statue anew. The statue is alive during this holy celebration too and might provide insight into warfare or other subjects.
The valley is a known and popular ancestor site for House Bjornaer. It was discovered Rosaio of Clan Ilfetu in the 10th century. Who’s sept still has a presence in the valley to this day. The rock engraving might offer insight into Fertility Magic. The valley was put forth as a possible Tribunal meeting ground early in the Tribunal’s history. But due to its lack of connection to the Cult of Mercury it was overlooked. Much to House Bjornaer joy.
Story Seed: Rose and Thorn
A girl is born in the valley with a birthmark resembling the camunian rose. Candace of House Criamon finds the child and takes her in, recognizing the birthmark as a stigmata and her Gentle Gift. Candace, who is interested in the ancient people of Italy, hopes that the girl will be able to shed light on the mysterious Camunni. Candace has opened the girl’s Arts and begun teaching her in the valley. There is however a looming problem, Svecica of Clan Ilfetu has had a vision. She has foreseen that the girl would have the rose as her heartbeast, same as Rosaio did. Svecica thus conspires to steal away the girl from Candace. To this end she needs a catpaw or accomplice. The PCs can serve either side. Svecica is not a pacifist unlike Candace. If cloak and dagger will not pay off, she intends to declare wizard war. Something the magi might very well be involved in as well.