# Val Masino

> Italian comune

**Wikidata**: [Q40902](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q40902)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Val_Masino)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/val-masino

## Summary
Val Masino is a small Italian *comune* (municipality) located in the Province of Sondrio, within the Lombardy region of northern Italy. It is a rural settlement with a population of around 900 residents, situated in the scenic alpine landscape near the Swiss border.

## Key Facts
- **Type:** Italian *comune* (municipality)
- **Location:** Province of Sondrio, Lombardy, Italy
- **Coordinates:** 46.2128° N, 9.6372° E
- **Population:** 914 (most recent data), with historical counts of 891 and 840
- **Website:** [http://www.comune.valmasino.so.it](http://www.comune.valmasino.so.it)
- **Wikidata Description:** Italian comune
- **Sitelink Count:** 49 (Wikidata)
- **Nearby Settlements:** San Martino, Cataeggio (human settlement in Italy)
- **Administrative Context:** Part of the *comune* system of Italy, a municipal division

## FAQs
**Where is Val Masino located?**
Val Masino is situated in the Province of Sondrio, which is part of the Lombardy region in northern Italy. It lies near the Swiss border in an alpine area.

**How large is Val Masino’s population?**
The population of Val Masino has fluctuated slightly, with recent counts around 914 residents. Historical data shows figures of 891 and 840, indicating a small, stable community.

**What is the administrative role of Val Masino?**
As a *comune*, Val Masino functions as a local municipal division within Italy’s administrative structure, managing local governance, services, and infrastructure for its residents.

**What are some nearby settlements?**
Nearby settlements include San Martino and Cataeggio, both small human settlements within the same region of Italy.

## Why It Matters
Val Masino represents the rural and administrative fabric of northern Italy, contributing to the cultural and geographical diversity of the Lombardy region. As a *comune*, it plays a role in local governance, preserving the traditions and infrastructure of its alpine community. Its proximity to the Swiss border also highlights its position in a transnational alpine landscape, making it relevant for regional cooperation and tourism.

## Notable For
- **Alpine Location:** Situated in the scenic alpine region near the Swiss border.
- **Small-Scale Governance:** Operates as a *comune*, a fundamental unit of Italian local administration.
- **Stable Population:** Maintains a consistent population size, reflecting a tight-knit community.
- **Cultural Heritage:** Part of Lombardy’s rich cultural and historical landscape.

## Body

### Geography and Location
Val Masino is located in the Province of Sondrio, within the Lombardy region of northern Italy. Its coordinates are 46.2128° N latitude and 9.6372° E longitude, placing it in a mountainous area near the Swiss border. The *comune* is part of Italy’s administrative division system, which includes over 7,900 *comuni* across the country.

### Demographics
The population of Val Masino has been recorded at approximately 914 residents, with historical data showing slight variations (891 and 840). This indicates a small, stable community typical of rural alpine settlements in Italy. The *comune* system ensures local governance tailored to the needs of such populations.

### Administrative Structure
As a *comune*, Val Masino is a basic administrative unit in Italy, responsible for local governance, public services, and infrastructure. It operates under the broader framework of the Province of Sondrio and the Lombardy region. The *comune* system is a cornerstone of Italy’s decentralized governance, allowing for localized decision-making.

### Nearby Settlements
Val Masino is proximate to other small settlements, including San Martino and Cataeggio. These nearby areas share similar rural and alpine characteristics, contributing to the regional identity of northern Lombardy.

### Digital Presence
Val Masino maintains an official website at [http://www.comune.valmasino.so.it](http://www.comune.valmasino.so.it), providing information for residents and visitors. Its Wikidata entry includes 49 sitelinks, indicating a moderate level of digital documentation and recognition.

### Related Administrative Entities
Val Masino is part of the broader network of Italian *comuni*, which are municipal divisions essential to Italy’s administrative structure. The Province of Sondrio and the Lombardy region oversee its governance, ensuring integration with national policies while preserving local autonomy.

### Significance in Lombardy
Val Masino’s location in Lombardy, a region known for its economic vitality and cultural heritage, underscores its role in the broader context of northern Italy. While small, it contributes to the region’s diversity and administrative efficiency.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
3. Italian National Institute of Statistics
4. [Popolazione Residente al 1° Gennaio 2018. Italian National Institute of Statistics](http://demo.istat.it/pop2018/index3.html)
5. [Source](https://demo.istat.it/?l=it)
6. GeoNames
7. [Superficie di Comuni Province e Regioni italiane al 9 ottobre 2011. Italian National Institute of Statistics](https://www.istat.it/it/archivio/156224)
8. Wiki Loves Monuments Italia
9. [archINFORM](https://www.archinform.net/service/wd_aiort.php)
10. Seismic classification in Italy
11. [Source](https://rischi.protezionecivile.gov.it/it/sismico/attivita/classificazione-sismica)