Serina mayor defends cowbell tradition amid tourist complaints

Tourists staying in the Alpine village of Serina in the Bergamo province of Italy complained that the constant ringing of cowbells from nearby grazing cattle made their holidays unbearable, with some visitors ending their stays early. The complaints were filed again after a similar grievance in 2025.

Mayor Michele Villarboito responded, saying that cowbell sounds are an integral part of mountain life, likening a complaint to “complaining about the sound of waves at the sea.” He rejected any ban on the bells, posted a tongue‑in‑cheek “special ordinance” on the town’s Facebook page, and suggested earplugs as a practical solution. The mayor’s remarks highlighted the cultural importance of the tradition and the tension between urban visitors and local mountain practices.