Discover Italy from Expo Milano 2015

Cities The charm of Turin and much more

Nature Fairy-tale panoramas and mythical summits

The fascination of the royal Ideas for the discovery of region a unique region, protagonist of history. And of the future.

Culture Between museums, royal palaces and legends The Royal Palace of Turin SHOPPING When the purchase 40 becomes discovery

Historic shops 42 Excellence in craftsmanship

Outlets and factory shops 43 Unexpected bargains

34 A CONTENTS CULTURE LAKES SPAS In Piedmont, 8 Mirrors of beauty 20 To each his own wellness 30 culture is enchantment Lago d’Orta and Island of San Giulio 20 The pleasure of regeneration 31 The Royal Palace of Venaria 9 Oasis of silence and of poetry 42 45 Invitation to the Court Lago Maggiore and the Borromeo Islands 22 FOOD Museum of Contemporary Art at Rivoli Castle 10 Suspended between admiration and wonder The past houses the future Delicious itineraries of taste 32 B Turin’s Museum of Cinema 10 MOUNTAINS IN WINTER The magic of the Seventh Art A legend in white 24 White truffle 33 DESTINATIONS in Turin’s Museum of Cinema Let the aroma inebriate you In piste, among the most stunning peaks of Italy 25 Here every city has a story 44 Egyptian Museum of Turin 11 Chocolate 34 Indiana Jones for a day The mouth-watering passion Turin 45 The fascinating elegance of history Turin, Saluzzo and Mondovì 12 Cheeses and cold cuts 34 Baroque seduction 27 Good by tradition Alessandria 47 Holy Shroud of Turin 13 The city of the Borsalino and Marengo Rice 35 The mystery of a face Choice varieties Asti 48 Sacred Mountains 13 Between the Palio and Spumante Towards Jerusalem… but in Piedmont WINE Biella 49 Sacra di San Michele 14 The antique wisdom of wool Breath-taking impressiveness Masterpieces to drink 36 Cuneo 50 Bicentenary of the birth of Don Bosco 15 Barolo 37 12 An astonishing piazza The young people’s saint The king of wines, the wine of kings SPORT Novara 51 Spumante, Moscato and Brachetto 38 The heights of emotion NATURE On the grass, on the water, 26 Choose sweetness among the trees Verbania 52 Splendours of nature 16 Vermouth 38 In the flowers, in the greenery and in the blue The rite of the aperitif Monte Rosa 17 Trekking 27 Vercelli 53 Get… in the Pink Lose yourself in the green Craft Beer 39 Land of rice and of art The drink with soul Monviso 18 Bicycle 28 His Royal Highness, the King of Stone The Pedalling of champions C D Gran Paradiso National Park 18 Golf 29 36 Not just a park… a Paradise Golfing within fairy-tale landscapes Alpine crossings 19 River sports 29 Across the border Liquid emotions 52 Langhe’s landscape

Verbania

Biella Novara Milan

Vercelli

Turin Rich in history, Asti Alessandria

Cuneo naturally beautiful The Region offers an extraordinary variety of landscapes, from the spectacular Land of great emotions and unique among the Italian mountain peaks of its mountains Art and nature in harmony grant regions, protagonist of history first with the Savoy dynasty to its shining lakes, from green then with the statesmen who forged the modern state of hillsides covered in vines to Piedmont a unique charm, Italy, centre of the twentieth-century transformation of castle, fortresses and abbeys definitely worth discovering. Italy from an agricultural land to an industrial power and dominating the valleys. custodian of real cultural and food-and-wine treasures to inspire visitors from all countries.

6 7 Royal Palace of Venaria: the Gallery of Diana Invitation to In Piedmont, the Court culture is enchantment Venaria also hosts large exhibitions and is the venue for many big events such as the Galà di Ferragosto, the Nuit Royale and the Grand Ball of Classic balcony on Lago Maggiore Royal Venaria. Absolutely not to be missed! The Royal Palace of Venaria, just outside Turin, is a jewel of Heritage site. Its splendid do not miss the view of the Gran architecture, nature gardens, skilfully restored, Parterre framed by the Alps. and harmony, where contain a potager royal, the The Royal Palace of Venaria is largest in Italy, with 10 hectares also a fantastic attraction for everyone is invited to of vegetable garden and orchard families with children. Take your live like a king for a where thousands of local kids to the Boschetto dei Giochi day. vegetables and grain crops are and the Fantacasino, where you grown. can all spend a fun day together! Masterpiece of Choose your preferred itinerary Culture in Piedmont is synonymous with noble elegance and international Baroque and be ready to be amazed! architecture, the Royal Admire the Sala di Diana with its folk traditions, history and legend, safeguarding of the Palace of Venaria is an original works of art and views memory and orientation towards the future. extremely imposing building onto the Court of Honour and In harmony with nature and source of inspiration of the spirit, which, in the original Flower Garden, be dazzled by the project, included the town, beauty of the Great Gallery, the culture of Piedmont is always… enchanting. the gardens and the current explore the private royal For more information vast park of La Mandria. apartments admiring the www.lavenaria.it furnishings of the Circolo della www.residenzereali.it Relax and enjoy to the – over 400 in the whole region. It was here, in the hunting park Regina, walk through the rooms extraordinary cultural riches of Experience the charm of stately of Carlo Emanuele II, that the of the ceremonial route of the The gardens of Venaria Piedmont, a land of history and homes and gardens, of the “ricetti”, memory, art and culture, legend and medieval fortified towns like “Crown of Delights” was King’s Palace as if you were an tradition. Choose your itinerary from Candelo, of castles and fortresses conceived, a complex of buildings 18th- century ambassador and the many possibilities, from the Royal perched in deep valleys or on top of circling Turin, originally intended enter the great multimedia fresco Residences of the Savoy dynasty, hills, bearing witness to the many to compete with Versailles. of court life created by director marvels of workmanship and historical events in which Piedmont splendour, to the Holy Mounts, played a part. Opened to the public in 2007 Peter Greenaway, The “ricetto” of Candelo masterpieces of sacred art full of after years of restoration, the unquestionably a memorable A meaning, to the amazing museums Palace is now a Unesco World experience. Among other things,

8 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 9 CULTURE In Piedmont, culture is enchantment Rivoli Castle, historical Savoy dynasty turned out to be its strength, as it early days of cinema, then go to curious as to how a film is made panoramic terrace, where you residence, houses one of Italy’s transmits an idea of continuity the Aula del Tempio at the centre should visit The Time Machine can enjoy a fantastic view of the between present, past and of the Mole and, sitting - devoted to the stages of movie city of Turin. most important contemporary art museums. future. comfortably on your red chaise making, this reveals the various Turin’s Cinema Museum – go with The Museum of Contemporary lounge, watch three films shown phases of creating, producing the flow! Rivoli Castle stands in a Art, inaugurated in 1984, contemporaneously on giant and distributing films. The past strategic position on a hill contains works from a great screens, or look around the The Poster Gallery contains above the town of the same variety of trends, from conceptual various displays where you can original posters from films that houses name and is an art to minimalism, from Land Art discover all kinds of made history – a unique, not-to- extraordinary surprise. to Arte Povera, with works by cinematographic genres, from be-missed opportunity! the future over 200 artists, from Rebecca animation to westerns, from Finally, return to the ground floor Could you ever have imagined Horn to Anselm Kiefer, from fantasy to musicals, from and take the glass elevator that finding a contemporary art Mario Merz to Arata Isozaki. romantic melodrama to 3D. in 59 seconds, without stopping, Exterior museum in a historic palace, Aspiring directors or those whisks you 85 metres up to the of Rivoli Castle home to the Savoy dynasty? Yes, because Rivoli was originally home of the court of the Dukes of th Savoy and in the 18 century For more information Turin’s Egyptian You can hire audio-guides or was the centre of an ambitious www.castellodirivoli.org Museum: the Hall of Statues book a guided tour around the project of development that was museum, so you can fully never completed. A fact that appreciate all the exhibits. Enjoy your visit to Turin’s Egyptian B Museum, discovering the great C civilisation of Ancient Egypt. The magic of Indiana the Seventh Art Jones FOR A DAY D Housed in Turin’s signature Turin’s Egyptian Museum is spectacularly laid out by Oscar building, the Mole the second most important winner, Dante Ferretti, where Turin’s Museum of Antonelliana, the National Turin’s Egyptian after Cairo and is devoted atmospheric semi-darkness Cinema, a one-of-a-kind Museum of Cinema’s vertical Museum offers a exclusively to the art and surrounds and exalts some of place, lets you layout offers visitors a seductive close culture of Ancient Egypt. Egyptian civilisation’s most special experience that will important sculptural experience a fun-filled encounter, between stay in the heart for a long The museum visit, covering three masterpieces, such as the journey into history of time. culture and adventure, floors, is inspiring and very famous statue of Ramesses or cinema, from its origins with one of the ancient exciting. that of Isis of Coptos. to our times. Created by Swiss set designer world’s greatest After crossing the courtyard of François Confino, the spectacular civilisations. the Baroque Palace at the and engaging layout gives the entrance to the Museum, plunge Panorama of Turin impression of watching a film. into your visit and discover the For more information Seeing is believing! Choose your ancient crafts and skills of Ancient www.museocinema.it preferred tour from the many Egypt, the precious collection of For more information possibilities: try for yourself National grave ornaments and lastly, on Museum of www.museoegizio.it equipment from the Cinema in Turin the top floor, the statue collection,

10 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 11 CULTURE In Piedmont, culture is enchantment The Holy Shrould of Baroque The Turin is the precious seduction mystery cloth that wrapped the body of Jesus after the of a face flagellation. Its Turin, Saluzzo and Turin, Piazza San Carlo: Stop fascinanting history at one of the piazza’s historic changed the sacredness Mondovì are cities Turin Cathedral houses the cafes for a great coffee of Piedmont for ever. where Baroque art has accompanied by the city’s Holy Shroud, the precious cloth that, according to the best expressed its clever special ‘mignon’ pastries or – façade. As soon as you enter you why not? – by some Gospels, wrapped the body of Turin Cathedral: detail E theatracality. In each of will be amazed by the splendid of the Holy Shroud Jesus Christ after he was chocolates, and enjoy the cupola and rich, harmonious these places you will atmosphere of a 19th-century whipped during the trial holy relic arrived in Turin and this Every 5 years the Shroud is interior. café – not to be missed. overseen by Pontius Pilate. changed forever the religious shown in public. It will next be on find squares that seem From Piazza Castello enter Via nature of Piedmont. Indeed if you show in spring 2015 – a unique like salons, streets full of Garibaldi, where you can admire The history of this cloth, about look carefully at Turin’s house chance to go to Piazza del charm and breath-taking other Baroque and late Baroque four metres long by one metre facades and church interiors, you Duomo and experience an buildings and churches, leading buildings. wide, remains hidden in a often find paintings and unforgettable moment. to the nineteenth-century Piazza fascinating mystery. Is the image references showing the strong Statuto, with its Frejus Fountain that can be glimpsed on the link between the city and its The itinerary of Turin’s part of the Palazzo, are open to that, according to popular fabric truly that of Our Saviour? territory and the Shroud Baroque gems begins in the public. One of the rooms you legend, represents the gates of Why was it moved from tradition. Piazza San Carlo, also called will visit was the study of Camillo the underworld. Jerusalem to Constantinople, The Shroud Museum documents the “salon of Piedmont’s Benso, Count of Cavour. In the Go to the south of Piedmont and then from Constantinople to Lirey the history of the holy cloth and capital”, breathtakingly piazza you will also find two Turin discover the two small towns of (perhaps via Athens)? displays the box used to elegant, with the institutions - the restaurant “Al Saluzzo and Mondovì, to What is certain is that in 1578 the transport it to Turin. symmetrical facades of its Cambio” where Cavour had his appreciate the illusion and the buildings and two identical own table and where, following theatrical nature of Baroque. In churches. recent renovation, today you can Saluzzo the itinerary begins at still enjoy great Piedmont cuisine, the Cathedral, in the heart of the Towards Jerusalem… Dive into the picturesque and the Carignano Theatre, town, continuing towards pedestrian shopping streets and where the King went to see plays, Piazzetta San Nicola and through but in Piedmont go to Piazza Carignano, home to now host to top prose and dance Palazzo dei Gesuiti reaching the Palazzo Carignano, designed in performances. church of San Bernardo with its The Sacred Mountain of Crea F the second half of the The heart of Baroque Turin can unusual bell tower covered in The Sacred Mountains Throughout the Middle Ages, Why was it created? It was the seventeenth century by Guarino be found in Piazza Castello, in the majolica. After a brief walk up the a constant flow of pilgrims bright idea of Franciscan friar, Guarini and long considered one impressive façade of Palazzo Salita and past Piazza Castello, of Piedmont, places of travelled across Europe, en Bernardino Caimi, who based it of the finest examples of Madama, one of Piedmont’s most you reach the church and faith, art and emotion, route for the Holy Land. But on a simple concept: if the European Baroque. The Palazzo famous buildings, with its convent of San Bernardino. In allow one to follow in in the 15th century this flow pilgrims cannot go to Jerusalem, has close links with the history of imposing ceremonial staircase Mondovì you can admire the work Jerusalem will have to come to the footsteps of the 15th stopped and shortly after, Italy’s Risorgimento, having designed and built by Filippo of Francesco Gallo, whose . the Holy Mountain of the pilgrims housed the first Subalpine Juvarra, now home of the architectures is the highest century pilgrims along If you decide to walk through the Varallo was created, the Parliament and then the Council Museum of Ancient Art. expression of Baroque majesty. paths of this city built on a rock, itineraries immersed in first of the Holy Mountains of State. Another not-to-be-missed gem be prepared to be deeply in Piedmont and Lombardy, Today its “Baroque apartments”, is the Church of San Lorenzo. Do nature and profound touched. You will find no less than now part of Unesco Heritage. certainly the most spectacular not be put off by the lack of spirituality. 50 chapels, populated by life-size

12 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 13 CULTURE In Piedmont, culture is enchantment the Rosminian fathers welcome Legend has it that the route was marked is said that, to show her those desirous of an interlude out by St. Michael with his sword during incredulous neighbours what of reflection and prayer. Not far a struggle with the Devil and some happened, and out of vanity, she believe that the sanctuaries are linked from Biella is the Sacred repeated her gesture, falling to a by a strong line of energy. Could it be Mountain of Oropa, in a glorious horrible death at the foot of the true? The only way to find out is to go natural setting 1200 metres The Sacred Mountain of Varallo there. precipice. above sea level, the most Before walking back down to the G important place of Marian cult in valley, take a few moments to Varallo, the marvellous pupil of the Alps. Last to be built was the gone to the Sacra to pray against observe the view below. You will Sacred Mountain of Belmonte, FOR MORE INFORMATION Caravaggio. the evils of war but had the experience a sense of peace and www.sitiunesco.it/ The Sacred Mountain of Crea, in from which a very wide misfortune to meet enemy serenity that only comes from panorama is visible. i-sacri-monti-del-piemonte-e- the heart of Monferrato, also tells soldiers. Unable to escape she gazing at mountains, hanging della-lombardia.html The spirituality of these places the same story of art and flung herself off the cliff, invoking between heaven and earth. is enhanced by the forests and devotion and includes a large the aid of St. Michael and the harmony of nature where they sanctuary with 23 chapels. Virgin Mary. Her prayer was are located. Beside the lakes, the Sacred answered and she fell to the The Sacred Mountains of Mountain of Orta is striking for its bottom of the precipice, unhurt. Piedmont, experiences full of artistic richness and the beauty Do not, however, follow the of the place and panorama on emotion. The Sacred Mountain of Orta H example of lovely Alda because it Lake Orta. Then, in a splendid position dominating Lake characters that appear lifelike Maggiore, there is the Sacred and whose gaze and gestures Mountain of Ghiffa with three are totally convincing. chapels and the portico of the The young These statues are the work of Via Crucis surrounded by some important artists from beautiful paths. The Sacred The Sacra of San Michele people’s various historical periods, from Mount Calvary dominates the The Sacred Mountain of Ghiffa I Gaudenzio Ferrari to Tanzio da town of Domodossola, where saint L On the occasion of 200 years from the birth of Don Founded between 983 and 987 Sant’Ambrogio in the province of Giovanni Bosco, from August Don Giovanni Bosco was Breath- A.D. on the rocky spur of Turin. Along the way are the 15 2014 to August 2015 Piedmont born 200 years ago. The Sanctuary of Don Bosco Mount Pirchiriano, the Stations of the Cross, leading up in Castelnuovo will host a series of events A series of interesting taking Sacra di San Michele lies at to the hamlet of San Pietro. revisiting the most events and itineraries M impressiveness the heart of a pilgrim Walking along, glimpsing the significant places than 323 vocations route more than two Sacra among the trees, is the connected with the figure will celebrate, between to religious life took place. The Sacra of San Michele, thousand kilometres long, only way to fully experience the of the Saint. August 2014 and August With map in hand, believers can symbol of Piedmont, is a which unites almost all of majesty of this structure. 2015, the memory of the revisit the places where Don Western Europe starting Once at the foot of the Sacra, the Celebrations will begin in Bosco liked to walk - from Turin to fascinating place of founder of the Salesian from Mont-Saint-Michel in impressive Stair of the Dead, Castelnuovo Don Bosco, the Becchi di Castelnuovo then from order. pilgrimage that dates from France and going right to where monks’ skeletons were Saint’s native town, where there there to Val Rilate, towards before the year 1000. It Monte Sant’Angelo in once kept, leads to the Church. is a Sanctuary dedicated to him Sacred Mountain of Crea, heart Casale, towards Monferrato and reaches up majestically in Puglia. The high wall of the ruins ends in and his birthplace. A series of of religious devotion in to the sea at Genoa. the sky, among enchanting the Tower of Beautiful Alda, events will be held in other parts Monferrato, the Collegio San The Don Bosco Map, specially There is a road up to the Sacra perched over the precipice of the of Piedmont, such as Casale Carlo al Mirabello, first Salesian prepared for the occasion, landscapes and antique but it is lovely to climb up on foot, mountain. Legend has it that Monferrato, frequently visited by foundation outside of Turin and entitles you to discounts at all legends. starting from the village of Alda, a young peasant girl, had Don Bosco, the Sanctuary and Lu, the small town were no less associated structures.

14 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 15 CULTURE In Piedmont, culture is enchantment Enjoy a unique experience you to discover a variety of The National Park in touch with nature. In Piedmont, environments and landscapes - from of Val Grande discover the beauty and majesty the Alps down to the rolling hills of some of the most famous Alpine where shells and fossils are hidden, peaks, such as Monte Rosa and proof of far-off times when the sea Monviso. Walk along a thousand lapped there, and right down to the paths through some of Italy’s most plain, crossed by Italy’s longest river, beautiful protected areas, like the the Po. Gran Paradiso and the Val Grande National Parks. Piedmont’s protected areas invite

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The nature of Piedmont is varied and always… splendid: it is so on the slopes of the legendary mountains and in the uncontaminated parks, along the banks of the many rivers on the famous alpine passes, beyond which one finds oneself, in just a matter of minutes, in the heart of Europe. Its highest peak, the Alpine skiing on Monte Rosa Dufour Peak, reaches 4643 metres above sea B level and is one of the favourite destinations for mountaineers in the Alps. Alpine landscape Get…

in the Pink Lake Rochemolles at Bardonecchia

Monte Rosa, one of the most fascinating and If you would like something less symbolic peaks of Italy, gives off emotions of every exciting but just as lovely, there is a choice of walks, such as the colour: green like the woods, pink like the rock that Grande Sentiero Walser, which gives it its name and the sky, silver like its snow. follows the route used by Germanic peoples during their With its spectacular summit migrations. tinged by that Then there is sport for all tastes Freeriders at Alagna Valsesia unmistakeable pink light, and all seasons, from ski Splendours Monte Rosa is one of the mountaineering to cycling, right symbolic mountains of Italy. through to fishing in the mountain lakes. If you love ice climbing, then this Monte Rosa – live it, love it! of nature is the challenge for you - try crossing the eastern face that drops down to Macugnana and you will think yourself in the Himalayas!

16 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 17 NATURE splendoURS OF NATURE His Royal Across

Highness, A mountain where the essential the border elements of light, air, rock and the King water hold sway. of Stone Here you can live unique The peaks of Monviso experiences whose memories will stay with you for a long time, such as snowboarding by night, in Monviso: the giant of the Majestic above the a magical world where little by surrounding peaks, thrilling little you completely lose touch Cottian Alps, source of Piedmont proposes to those who visit it the the Po River, enchants in the light of dawn, with reality, or daytime Monviso has always been the emotion of trips across the border through with its fairy-tale excursions tracking wild animals. symbol of the valleys of Monviso, be amazed by the one of the most fascinating Alpine passes. landscapes where Cuneo and source of Italy’s power of nature! impressive boulders mix longest river, the Po. with forests of Swiss stone pine and crystalline lakes. The Colle della Not just a park… Lombardia connects Italy and France, as do a Paradise the Colle del Monceniso Village on the border with France and the Colle del Monginevro, the latter said to have been used The Gran Paradiso, the first your snow shoes doing some If you love mountains, The climb up to Colle della by the Romans and the national park created in high-quota snowboarding. Piedmont offers some of the Lombarda, one of the loveliest in Gauls, even by Italy to save the last And when you least expect it, you most spectacular climbs the Alps, is 21.7 km long and on Hannibal’s army with surviving colony of ibex, might come upon an ibex or roe across Alpine passes and the the way, at 2035 metres above their elephants. covers a vast territory deer, looking at you and wanting chance to walk to sea level, you find the Sanctuary The Gran Paradiso, first embracing the Gran Paradiso to make your acquaintance! neighbouring countries of Sant’Anna di Vinadio, the Italian National Park, is range, the valleys of Cogne, Gran Paradiso National Park – such as Switzerland and highest in Europe. The Colle Valsavarenche and Rhêmes, France. vast and magnificent in live the emotion. connects Italy and France, as do and the Piedmont valleys of the Colle del Monceniso and the The Alps of Devero every season. And those Orco and Soana. The Simplon Way was built by Colle del Monginevro, the latter who frequent it might Napoleon Bonaparte as part of said to have been used by the foot or on skis. Or, if you prefer meet someone… Find your own dimension and a long road that was to link Paris Romans and the Gauls, even by a comfortable panoramic route, someone truly special! discover it in your favourite and Milan. It leaves Milan, Hannibal’s army with their you can take the ‘Hundred season. From mid-June to crosses Lombardy and Lake elephants. The Passo San Valleys’ train from Domodossola mid-July you can see astonishing Maggiore, then climbs the valleys Giacomo links Valle Formazza to to Locarno, through lovely flowers, in autumn you can For more information into Switzerland, giving you an Canton Ticino, along a historic landscapes of forests, wild View of the Gran Paradiso watch chamois mating and in www.pngp.it/ente-parco incredible spectacle of glaciers route that has always united the mountains, watercourses and winter you can cross the park on and valleys. two places and which is viable on waterfalls.

18 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 19 NATURE splendoURS OF NATURE Lago Maggiore

Mirrors Piedmont is studded with Giulio and the Lago di Avigliana, set destination for lovers of water fascinating lakes such as Lago in a wonderful position at the foot of sports. The Lago di Viverone, set in Maggiore, whose banks, covered by Monte Pirchiarano, under the Sacra the Morenic landscape, is home to villas and splendid gardens, have di San Michele, one of Piedmont’s numerous species of aquatic birds. inspired men of letters and travellers most important religious Not forgetting the countless of beauty from across the world, or Lago monuments. The Lago di Mergozzo, mountain lakes, with their crystal- d’Orta with its dreamy Island of San with its pure waters, is a favourite clear waters.

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The lakes of Piedmont are special. Each with its landscape The Island of San Giulio San Giulio is certainly not to be missed. Inside you will find an and personal fascination: from the stupendous Lago ancient marble pulpit, and Maggiore, which has inspired poets, to the delightful Lago excellent paintings and frescoes. From there you can take the Road d’Orta, to the many alpine lakes, sparks of crystal nestled of Silence and Meditation, among woods and mountains. enjoying the peacefulness, with a glimpse of the Benedictine convent where the closed order From the picturesque of nuns work on ancient fabrics. village of Orta San Along the way is Casa Tallone, According to legend, this dangerous beasts. Giulio it is a few where a famous annual festival Oasis island just 400 metres from minutes’ boat ride to the The Island of San of classical music is held. Looking the shore of Orta was once He then climbed onto his cloak as beautiful Island of San back to the shore you can see the Giulio is the “jewel” of silence inhabited by serpents and if it were a boat and reached the Giulio, situated right in Sacred Mountain, a Unesco terrible monsters, until island without getting wet. Tired, the centre of Lago of the Lago d’Orta: heritage site, with its 20 chapels and Giulio, a travelling saint nearing death, he chose that d’Orta. its birth is legendary set in a botanical garden. with powers over the waves, place as his last home and and still today it of poetry tempests, wild animals and decided to build there his The Island conserves intact the men, approached the lake, hundredth and last church. of San Giulio, stretched out his hand and On reaching the island, a visit magic of silence and island of dreams. chased away the fierce and to the Romanesque Basilica of of dreams.

20 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 21 LAKES MIRRORS OF BEAUTY The gardens of Isola Bella

You will be astounded by the amazing architecture of the gardens of Isola Bella, built on 10 pyramid- shaped terraces. This is a wonderful example of an Suspended Italian garden built, literally, on a rocky islet between admiration and was a gift from Carlo III Borromeo to his wife and wonder Isabella. It has taken 400 years of work for you to B enjoy the wealth of flowers The Borromeo Islands Set off for the Borromeo luxuriant, refined English-style For more information perfumed cedars and lemons and plants and the majestic www.illagomaggiore.com on Lago Maggiore are Islands from Piazzale Lido garden. Thanks to its mild echo the words of Flaubert, “it is display of statues, obelisks in Stresa, a splendid holiday climate, species from all over the the most voluptuous place I have and stone steps. a true jewel of art and resort with elegant lakeside world thrive there, from seen in the world”. nature. Whoever visits promenade. Here you can Patagonia to Arabia, from Brazil The tour ends on Isola dei them is suspended in decide your destination or to New Zealand, from Bolivia to Pescatori, the only one of the time, almost in perhaps take the complete China. In springtime you can see Borromeo Islands that is lived the opportunity of enjoying the overwhelmed by such day trip to all three islands. spectacular flowerings of azaleas, on all year round. There is a little day’s catch in one of the beauty, and has trouble camellias and rhododendrons. fishing village with a small piazza, trattorias overlooking the lake. On Isola Bella, the Palazzo is a Palazzo Borromeo is worth Isola Madre surrounded by narrow streets. Tour of the Borromeo Islands, choosing which one real gem of Baroque art, with visiting with its splendid rooms, Fishing is still very active, so take a really high-class tour. of them is the personal breath-taking paintings, original such as the Hall of Dolls, the C favourite. furniture, stuccoes, armour and Puppet Theatre and the Hall of grottoes. the Seasons. Among its wooded Isola Madre, by contrast, is a avenues, lily ponds and

22 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 23 LAKES MIRRORS OF BEAUTY Sestrière, Clavière, Bardonecchia, Sauze d’Oulx, Alagna, Limone Piemonte: legendary names in the history of Sestrière Italian skiing. Every winter they In piste, offer a myriad of among possibilities to the most those who love the magic of the snow stunning

and the beauty peaks and 16 lifts. Skiing at Limone of the landscape. means finding all kinds of pistes, of Italy from those suitable for beginners to those for experts. The Mondolé Ski area has almost 130 km of pistes and 39 lifts and has a ski-total station offering a high-altitude ski track for Nordic 53 internationally-known ski larch and fir woods. Remember skiing. The resort of Artesina resorts, some of them you are in the Milky Way, one of satisfies even the most symbols of Italian skiing, the world’s largest ski areas, and demanding skier - Alpine skiing, like Sestrière, Clavière, you have a wide choice of ski a 4 km cross-country track, rock A Bardonecchia and Sauze resorts where you can enjoy a climbing at Prato Nevoso, open d’Oulx and a myriad of lovely holiday on the snow. all night. opportunities for enjoying Bardonecchia, with over 110 km If holidaying in Val d’Ossola, just legend the snow, from snowboard of pistes, gives you the possibility a 15-minute drive from to sled dogs, from free rides Limone Piemonte of doing countless winter sports, Domodossola, you can easily to sports climbing routes. such as snowboard excursions, reach the ski resort of ice climbing and heli-ski. Domobianca with 20 km of pistes in white In Sestrière, venue for the 2005 The free riders’ paradise is and an incredible view right to Winter Olympics, there are over Alagna Valsesia, 180 km of Monte Rosa. A little further on, 400 km of piste and you can pistes, in the Monte Rosa area. on the pistes of San Michele and also try the experience of skiing The Riserva Bianca goes from Riale, national champions of by night. At Sauze D’Oulx, the Limone Piemonte to the borders cross-country skiing from many balcony of the Alps, you can of neighbouring France. It offers countries have trained. choose from wide, fast pistes or over 80 km of pistes, with The Piedmont mountains - a try lovely off-piste trails among excellent artificial snow systems winter holiday for all tastes!

24 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 25 MOUNTAINS IN WINTER A LEGEND in WHITE Hiking in Piedmont Excursions towards the summit of Monviso regenerates you, Trail towards because its trails, of Colle Croso (Biella) varying difficulty, cross through some of the most fascinating The luxuriant nature of windsurfing on Lago Maggiore. Piedmont, with its protected areas The Po is navigable with canoes, natural parks and and some famous peaks such as kayaks and row boats, while the panoramas of Italy. Monte Rosa and Monviso, makes it a lovers of cycling can experience for Not to be missed is the Giro true paradise for those who love themselves the emotion of following del Monviso, a famous active holidays and sports in the the itineraries on the roads of the trekking route on a circuit open air. There are countless great champion Fausto Coppi. Lose that can be completed in opportunities for excursions, hiking Golfers can choose from among the three, four or five stages, trails, places to practice sport many golf courses, some of which climbing and horseback trails are located near the royal yourself depending on one’s needs, surrounded by fairy-tale residences in Turin and others in the and where the rugged and landscapes. But there are also many atmospheric surroundings of Stresa, in the severe landscape of the rocky opportunities for those who love in the Biella area and in the peaceful walls of the massive southern water sports such as the descent of hills of the Langhe and Monferrato. green face alternate with crystalline ready for you to settle in for the the rapids in a canoe in Val Sesia or lakes with green-blue night. the practice of sailing and reflections. Then there are opportunities to You can’t wait for the take wondrous excursions also in moment Spring comes so Some of the most fascinating Nature Park of the Maritime Alps, that you can take long itineraries meander within the in the valleys of Valsesia among On the grass, strolls in the open air? Do National Park of Gran Paradiso, pastures, marmots, and remains you dream of hiking the first protected area in Italy, of the Walser - the ancient surrounded by luxuriant where with a little luck, you’ll population of Germanic origin - nature and breathing deeply meet a few beautiful exemplars and in the meadows of the Parco on the water, the good mountain air so as of roe or ibex along your path. Naturale Veglia Devero. to return home refreshed The Park of the Val Grande, Also passing from Piedmont and and rested? If so, Piedmont located in the eastern part of the through Biella is the Via is the region for you. region, lies along the shores of Francigena, the road that in the among Lago Maggiore and proposes a Middle Ages connected northern With a vast network of natural dense network of nature trails and southern Europe and on parks and some of the most suitable also for families with which goods, armies and pilgrims famous mountains of Italy, you children, but we always made their way. You can also try the trees will have the chance to recommend the maximum to navigate through a tract of it, experience the holiday of your prudence and care when armed with good footwear and A dreams here. following them. Remember, this is adequate supplies of water. Piedmont is a paradise for those who love the energy of Choose the path that is right for still the largest wilderness area in For less demanding walks, a you, from the clearly marked Europe! good idea could be to walk along the great outdoors. Walking, pedalling, galloping, rowing trails that are easy to follow, to If you are ambitious, you can the trails that wind through the or playing golf become total immersion in the splendour the most demanding ones that cross the extensive route of the vineyards of the Langhe, Roero of nature and the gracefulness of the landscape. require the help of hiking maps Great Crossing of the Alps where and Monferrato and between the and the careful observation of at the end of each day of travel crus of Barolo and Barbaresco, the information present in signs you will find a “refuge”, that is, a which have been inducted as placed along the route. structure with rooms and kitchen UNESCO World Heritage.

26 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 27 SPORT On the grass, on the water, among the trees Golf in Castelconturbia D (Novara) Don’t forget to take breaks Golfing For more information along the path and if you www.federgolfpiemonte.it/golf-in-piemonte want, you can decide to The spend the night in one of within The golfing tradition has the hotels in the area of routes. Some of the best golf pedalling tailored for cyclists which fairy-tale deep roots in Piedmont: in clubs of Italy are located here, offer some special services 1898 there was already a golf made to satisfy the needs of all of such as secure storage for landscapes course, in an era where there golfers, from the beginner to the bicycles, energy breakfasts were only two golf courses most experienced one and champions and baskets for the picnic. in Italy. designed by architects of

C international fame who have been On bicycle on Monte Cucco Since 1898 Piedmont has Today there are over 40 clubs able to combine sports technique (Biella) been the land of golf. strategically located on the entire with the beauty of the landscape. Over 40 clubs today regional territory, from the Playing golf in Piedmont means battle of oranges or you can even allow both the novice and Olympic mountains to the Langhe, engaging in sport and relaxation in take part, but be careful so that the champion to choose from Lago Maggiore Lake towards contact with nature: the courses you don’t get hurt! among the widest variety Turin: playing golf in Piedmont are hardly ever crowded, there is Are you a fan of mountain biking? of courses. All of them means living this sport to the no obligation to use the golf car fullest, trying courses that and you can choose your own Then you absolutely must take have the background of meander on the most varied type companions for the game. the Via del Sale toward the sea of an enchanting landscape. Museum of the Champions in Novi Ligure (Alessandria) Liguria or try the adrenaline of descents in the bike parks of the B in Alps Bike Resort. Over 400 km Scaling the streets that have made Fausto Coppi of paths that extend from 1300 Liquid meters of altitude until you reach With its lakes, rivers and great, reaching the sea in mountain bike or 3000 meters, 40 trails, paths for streams, Piedmont offers so emotions choosing the aromas, colours and the art of the cross country, freeride and much: tranquil paths along paths along the valleys. For those who love the two downhill, make this area one of the Po and Ticino, the first wheels, in Piedmont the choice is vast. the most important centres for and second rivers of Italy, and on the banks of Lago off-road biking in the Italian Rafting in Valsesia Piedmont is the right region those which meander between panorama. Maggiore, where the E if you want to travel by the perfumes and colours of Val Biella offers more than 1000 km Olympic champions train, bicycle, with trails for all Curone or the climbs called Salite of cycle paths, with the exciting descents in kayak The many streams, rivers and lakes of Piedmont tastes. dei Campioni on the roads of the challenging single track of the and rafting in Valle Stura, in propose an infinite series of opportunities: from the Val Sesia, in Valle d’Elvo and Alta Langa, and why not, the alpine strip. Routes that are rich most adventurous to the most relaxing, from the silent If you find yourself in Valle Scrivia, enchanting rings for mountain in climbs and descents that have the Dora Baltea, also known solidary challenges to the joyful emotions of country life. don’t forget to experiment with bikers in the heart of the Roero, differentiated technical as the Colorado of Europe. the cycling path along the streets immersed in luxuriant vegetation difficulties. of Fausto Coppi, legend of Italian and surrounded by the majestic If you are in Novi Ligure you can If you love nature and adventure on the Sesia river which, with its fishing will discover that, on the cycling, who here discovered that spectacle of the Rocche. visit the Museum of cycling, where the Stura Valley is the ideal place 138 km, is one of the longest Sesia river, one can practice fly he was born for cycling. Starting The trail from Chivasso reaches you will find historical footage, to enter into the magical world of rivers in Piedmont and offers river fishing. If you have a fishing rod, from Castellania you can take Ivrea winding between castles, some famous bicycles and river sports. Do you want an courses for beginner and expert try the technique called advantage of the chance to visit villages and a naturalistic oasis. testimonies of the great exciting experience on your own? canoeists, immersed in magical “Valesiana” and if you are lucky the house of his birth before If you find yourself in Ivrea champions of today and Then try the canoe! Do you prefer landscapes and clear waters. For you will be able to catch some undertaking the climbs that precisely in the days of the yesterday, protagonists of the strong emotions in the company the more adventurous, try sports large marble trout. characterise the path. Carnival, you will have the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de of others? Then rafting is for you. such as canyoning and Other fascinating paths are opportunity of watching the France. Many activities can even be done hydrospeed, while those who love

28 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 29 SPORT On the grass, on the water, among the trees The pleasure of regeneration

The Spas of Premia

can experience the thrill of To each plunging into the hot waters of the open-air swimming pools, while contemplating the lovely, snow-covered surrounding his own landscape. Relax in one of the natural grottoes of the Royal Spas of Valdieri, in the heart of the Park wellness of the Maritime Alps, Italy’s highest spa (1370 metres). This is A break of true relaxation and untouched the only one in Italy to grow and nature, the pleasure of taking care of use algae in its therapies. oneself and fulfilment of the spirit. This, Looking for somewhere in Roman times, today offers The Spas of Lurisia, near Cuneo, relaxing but where you can traditional and modern are set in a luxuriant pine forest and much more, is what the spas of be very close to nature? The structures, where health benefits and are rich in health-giving, Piedmont offer. spas of Piedmont are what can be combined with some purifying waters, while those of you need! Dedicate yourself pleasurable pampering. Garessio use one of the lightest to beauty and other The Spas of Premia, among the waters in the world as a favourite treatments, while mountains and natural parks of therapeutic drink. The Spas of Valdieri your gaze sweeps across the Val d’Ossola, are a unique At the Spas of Agliano, a few A surrounding valleys and you occasion to get back into perfect kilometres from Asti among the breathe the pure mountain form and enjoy a totally relaxing enchanting Monferrato hills, you air. holiday. Take the opportunity of can enjoy relaxing and take enjoying a delicious crodino, the advantage of the properties of At Acqui, in the heart of Val famous non-alcoholic drink, here the spa waters, good for the Bormida, is the surprising “la where it has been made since respiratory and digestive tracts. Bollente”, where water bubbles 1964. The spas of Piedmont – don’t out of a fountain at up to 75 At the Spas of Vinadio, high up at miss this chance for a well- degrees. This spa town, popular 1320 metres above sea level, you earned rest! B 30 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 31 SPAS TO EACH HIS OWN WELLNESS Quality, variety and personality: these are the attributes that make the table of Piedmont a great one. A region where every town has its own tastes and each dish is prepared with the most The famous cream made of Piedmont authentic products of the land and of PGI hazelnuts tradition.

If you want a taste experience that is unique, go to the Langhe The white truffle and Monferrato on the trail of the truffle. A light “grating” is enough to release unique aromas, a combination of garlic, honey and hay, that will go to your head and leave you speechless. Let the aroma

inebriate you Pasta with truffles

The white truffle is a diamond and symbolises the excellence of the Piedmont table. Its aromas are

The Festival of Food unmistakeable and all it takes is a small quantity in Asti Delicious of it to make every dish a masterpiece. B

The white truffle is like a accompanied by their faithful A itineraries diamond, prized and hunted dogs. Not to be missed is the at the same time. It is without National Fair of the White Truffle doubt one of the stars of of Alba, where you can meet of taste Piedmont cuisine. truffle hunters awaiting the Are you ready for a fantastic from cheese to cold cuts. Meat from The Piedmont variety, round and magical rite of “grating” or the taste trip, delighting your palate with Piedmont cattle is indeed of very high sweet, is used for desserts and On fondue or on raw meat or many truffle fairs that enliven lots of rich specialities? quality, as is the rice, on which are pralines and also as an Agnolotti alla tagliatelle, the white truffle of autumn in the Langhe or accompaniment to other dishes. And piemontese You can rely on Piedmont to satisfy based the many delicious recipes Alba will be an exciting Monferrato. – even exceed – all your expectations. prepared by famous restaurants in then hazelnuts fall in love with experience, especially if eaten There is an enormous choice for food the Region. In the heart of the chocolate to produce the gianduiotto, lovers and something for all tastes, Langhe, Roero and Monferrato a delicious chocolate with an among those hills that, by night, from mushrooms to prized truffles, precious fruit is found - the hazelnut. unmistakeable taste. are full of truffle hunters,

32 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 33 FOOD DELICIOUS ITINERARIES OF TASTE Piedmont has a centuries- For meat lovers, Piedmont’s cold The mouth-watering old culinary tradition and cuts will not disappoint you. Try its cheeses and cold cuts are the cacciatori, little pork salamis, passion certainly on the list of the Pastry shop in Turin C and crespone, salami made with region’s main traditional top quality pork flavoured with The streets of Turin contain The word “chocolate” is magical. All it takes is the products. fresh garlic, spices and Barbera. And don’t forget salami d’la duja a delicious surprise… in the sound of this word and one thinks of childhood and windows of the city’s There is such a wide range of and raw liver mortadella. Lard the happiness that only chocolate knows how to historic pastry shops is an cheeses, cow, goat and cheese, with rosemary from Cavour, amazing sight - a triumph of inspire. In Piedmont, this magic is an institution, one that you are simply spoiled for horsemeat and venison Filetto baciato from Ponzone praline, cream and that reigns supreme in the splendid pastry shops in choice. From Murazzano and bresaola, filetto baciato from E multiform chocolates every city. Roccaverano Robiola to Toma, Ponzone, muletta monferrina, displayed before your eyes, from Raschera to Testun, from testa in cassetta from Val made exclusively from Piedmont waiting to be tasted! Castelmagno to Gorgonzola right Borbera – just some of the veal, which can be eaten raw. through to Montebore, known to amazing products, including Yes, in Turin, as in all of Piedmont, cuneese al rhum. Praline filled Piedmont hazelnuts. Don’t forget Leonardo Da Vinci, don’t miss mortadella and bresaola from the chocolate is a real institution with a mixture of confectioner’s to taste the exquisite “baci”, a out on enjoying the aroma and Ossola and prosciutto from Valle and has a long history. The custard, rum and dark chocolate, speciality you can find nearly taste of cheeses from Vigezzo. If you are looking for legendary gianduiotto, a clever between two meringue wafers everywhere in south Piedmont, Piedmont’s mountains and something special, try the mixture of cocoa, sugar and and entirely covered in chocolate. and the Bonet, traditional valleys. sausages of Bra, the only ones delicate Piedmont hazelnut, was Then there is a product loved by chocolate pudding. Cuneo and patented here in 1865. Try it and children and mothers the world Turin are also two fundamental Just picked rice you will see – it melts in your over – indeed, by gourmets of all stages on the European cultural mouth, leaving sweetness never ages – which is made right here. itinerary of “the chocolate trail”, Choice before experienced. Have you guessed? Yes, it is a journey through European Cuneo has an authentic delight Nutella, the famous creamy capitals linked to the tradition varieties and the sky, ideal for cycling, with unmistakeable taste – the spread made of cocoa and and cult of this delicious product. pedalling effortlessly along paths that wind through canals and rice It has been since the 15th century that the plains of fields, farms and villages, that saw the birth of the Italian nation. Piedmont periodically flood and become a “patchwork Such an unusual charm that they PDO and PGI Cheeses and cold cuts sea”. Here the best varieties of rice are grown, have been called “patchwork D ready to be transformed into unforgettable dishes. seas”. Try the varieties of Arborio, Carnaroli, Sant’Andrea, Baldo and Here the cheeses are so Rice came to Piedmont from Roma, perfect for risottos, and many and so good that afar. From Asia, where it was round-grain rice, excellent for already known in 3500 B.C., timbales, puddings and soups, not they are called the it arrived here in the 15th forgetting the coloured and “white gold of century, bringing great flavoured rice types. For a perfect Imagine that you are at an inn Piedmont”. And the cold changes to the way of life risotto, at the end of cooking add Good by in Piedmont, sipping good cuts are truly delectable. and to the landscape. butter, cheese or sauce - this is red wine accompanied by Both of them represent the art of mantecatura, which tradition What a delight for the eye - the gives risotto its unforgettable tasty cold cuts and local the most ancient cheeses. What might you find plains of Vercelli, Novara, Biella creaminess. Every chef, every traditions of a land that is on the board in front of you? Panissa and Paniscia and Alessandria are landscapes town has their own speciality - wise and generous. suspended between the water tasting is believing! F

34 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 35 FOOD DELICIOUS ITINERARIES OF TASTE Tradition, talent and passion: this is wine in Piedmont. And it is here where many of Italy’s greatest wines The village of Barolo in the Langhe are born. Going out in the discovery of them allows one to experience the Wine tasting during endless love story the Salon of Wine the Douja d’Or in Asti between this land

and its people. Regional wine cellar in Grinzane Cavour B

Barolo is from the hills of the Langhe, the vineyard heart of Piedmont. Aged for at least three years in oak barrels, it is perfect when accompanied The king by roasted meat, cheeses and dishes with truffles. of wines, Masterpieces the wine of kings to drink Vineyard in the Langhe

Get to know this regal wine reflections, stimulates within A Barolo is born in the heart of the Langhe. This that has been ambassador of the mouth the taste of small red Piedmont of the House of fruits, cherries with spirit and in grand wine is the Savoy in every court of the form of jam, and sometimes ambassador of the land Europe. it also has suggestions of Rent a car or a bicycle and 42 DOC wines: in Piedmont wine Spumante. The choice of liquors and of Piedmont on the pepper and cinnamon. What is and get prepared for a trip in the is history, quality and passion. herbal drinks is vast, including That is because Barolo is the the best way to get to know it? discovery of the greatest Italian Among the reds one finds Barolo, Vermouth, which mixed with gin is world’s finest tables. king of wines but it is also a wines. From the Langhe to full-bodied and tannic, Barbera, rich used to prepare a Martini, the Without a doubt by visiting the Monferrato, from the Canavese in personality, Barbaresco with its protagonist of many aperitifs and wine of kings! Modelled on the cellars and the shops along the to the Asti areas there is an entire typical garnet-red colour, Dolcetto, unforgettable nights. And after tastes of the nobility of the 19th Road of Barolo or stopping at landscape of hills, castles and Grignolino, Nebbiolo and Brachetto dinner? A wonderful grappa, brandy century, this wine with an one of the excellent local vineyards that awaits you so that wines. Among the whites there is produced only in Italy: enjoy it with intense and pleasant aroma and restaurants located along the you can get to know some of its most Erbaluce, Gavi, Timorasso, Cortese, chocolate, you will bring along a little renowned wines. There are 16 DOCG Arneis, Moscato d’Asti and Asti history of Piedmont. garnet red colour with orange route.

36 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 37 WINE MASTERPIECES TO DRINK Choose sweetness

Are you lovers of sweet Brachetto has a light ruby red wines? Then you must visit colour and a musky smell which Regional wine cellar of Moscato lower Piedmont, which captures intense notes of roses extends through the and violets. Immersed in the hills of C Harmonious sweetness, provinces of Alessandria, the Langhe and Monferrato you Asti and Cuneo and let can choose if you wish to enjoy Asti fruity aroma, or with yourself be carried away by Spumante and other sparkling notes of flowers, their the intense aroma that wines, characterised by a fine and fresh and fragrant taste carries the scent of ripe persistent effervescence and with make the wines of lower bunches of muscat and a gradation between 7 and 9.5 Piedmont the ideal brachetto grapes, degrees or savour the aromatic accompanied by low companions for festive Moscato and Brachetto wines alcohol content and a which are sweeter and contain moments. harmonious sweetness. less alcohol. Prepare yourself for a journey among the hilly vineyards The fragrance of Asti is delicate, of the area between the persistent, with a fruity aroma and Bormida and Tanaro rivers, in the taste that is fragrant, fresh, search of the best cellars of the intense and balanced, while area! Drink the Piedmont beer where it is made: this way you will discover hidden corners, The rite full of brio. How to best Pub E of the aperitif savour it? In good company!

No one knows where Whether it was born in Egypt Traditional protagonist of the Italian aperitif, The beer was born. What is or Mesopotamia is still a mystery, but one thing is Vermouth was born in Piedmont from an old secret known is that it is alive drink certain: beer in Piedmont recipe. And it is also here that it became famous and very well in has found a homeland of with the name of Martini, a drink that – from James with adoption. Cocktails with Martini Piedmont. Here the Bond onwards – has made the world dream. craftsmen that have D soul been producing it for Since 1846 we have been The first manufacturer and How does one make this liquor, with great care by the individual producing Menabrea here, retailer of Vermouth was protagonist of the aperitif in Turin manufacturers. It can be white, almost two centuries historical brand of craft beer that Antonio Carpano who, in 1786, as well as in all the other cities of red, sweet, dry or bitter. It can be have created an has been awarded various times as the in the opened his workshop under Piedmont and Italy? It is a mixture tasted in the dry version, best in the world exquisite drink that has category of Pale Lager. Also from the arcades of Piazza of wine and of about 30 herbs according to the classic version of been given prizes the Piedmont is the best craft Castello, in the heart of among which the most important the “Punto e Més” in which a half world over. brewery of Italy and the expert Turin. is wormwood, according to a dose of cinchona is added, or in and professional producers are recipe that has been kept secret famous drinks like the Martini. truly numerous, more than 70.

38 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 39 WINE MASTERPIECES TO DRINK Borsalino hats B

Piazza Cavour in Vercelli When the The historical workshops of Piedmont tell magnificent stories of passion and talent. And the purchase many outlets and factory shops of the region are the ideal place to buy a gift… for someone else or becomes for yourself. discovery

A

40 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 41 SHOPPING WHEN THE PURCHASE BECOMES DISCOVERY Do you want designer clothing at bargain prices? A garment in cashmere? A tray or a tablecloth? In Piedmont you will find all this and much more. Relax while shopping!

D

Excellence in Distillery in Altavilla Monferrato (Alessandria) craftsmanship

Sartoria Cerruti Tailor (Biella)

C

A holiday in Piedmont would Antique artisan’s skill in the working of gold, not be complete without a ceramics, wood, fabric, paper. But also in the tour of its historic shops, preparation of sweets, design of hats, selling contemporary treasure The Place Outlet in books… in Piedmont craftsmanship is more than a Sandigliano (Biella) chests of craftsmanship handed down through the job. It is a way to do things with care, every day. E F generations. exceptional when burning. of “Geppettos” hard at work Are you on holiday and want Novara and Vercelli you can buy If you are looking for a gift for Are you keen on antique making spoons, plates, bowls Unex- to take the chance of top quality knitwear. And if you someone special go to Valenza furniture? Then you should stroll and lots of other beautiful renewing your wardrobe? are looking for something special Po, where you can buy splendid through the historic centres of objects for the home. pected Want to buy designer for home and table, the best of gold jewellery made in one of the Saluzzo and Cherasco, where you But there is a lot more to clothes without spending a Italian homeware can be found many artisan workshops founded can visit the many antique shops traditional Piedmont bargains fortune? Or are you just a by the Lakes, with a choice of lots in the 19th century. and choose your prized piece of craftsmanship. It is a way of shopaholic looking for your of designer objects from the best If you like ceramics you will be in furniture. The tradition of creating things with patience and next fix? brands. your element in Mondovì, near woodworking combines with a precision, which touches all Jewellery of Valenza

Cuneo, where you can watch passion for music to give rise to aspects of everyday life, from the The outlets in Serravalle, G skilled potters who, still today, artisan instrument making, such historic pastry shops where you Mondovì and Vicolungo and the make pots and objects in their as harps and accordions, in can enjoy an excellent hot factory shops of Piedmont are Evening market in Vercelli workshops in the town centre, Saluzzo, Piasco and Vercelli chocolate with cream, to the an excellent opportunity of painting them with bright colours respectively. Also made of wood bookshops, still with their antique satisfying all these requirements. and simple patterns. Another is the world’s most famous wooden cabinets, to the hats In particular, in the Biella area, important centre of ceramic puppet, Pinocchio, who comes appreciated all over the world, there are over 40 factory shops production is Castellamonte, from Val Strona, just a stone’s like the Borsalino of Alessandria. where you can buy cashmere where the famous stoves are throw from Lake Orta and Lake clothing and luxury fabrics, while made, lovely when off, but Maggiore, where there are plenty around Romagnano Sesia,

42 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 43 SHOPPING WHEN THE PURCHASE BECOMES DISCOVERY Starting from seductive Turin, first The Royal Palace TURIN capital of Italy, each city of Piedmont has its own story to tell. And they are stories The fascinating of arts and trades, of memories and elegance of innovations, of human talent and the history beauty of nature.

Venue of many nationally its buildings. View of Turin from the and internationally famed Thanks to its geographic and top of Madama Palace events, such as the cultural proximity to the France International Book Fair, the of the Lumière brothers, it can Salone del Gusto food fair also claim to be the first place in and the Turin Film Festival, Italy where cinematography was as well as protagonist of the born. It is no chance that Turin’s 2006 Winter Olympics, Turin is signature monument, the Mole an extremely fascinating Antonelliana, which marks the city that has succeeded in city’s skyline, houses the Museum fully exploiting the of Cinema, unique in the world Here opportunities of its various and full of exciting exhibits. epochs. In Turin you will find the perfect combination of culture, fun and It has been the capital of the lots of great food. Stroll through every city Savoy Kingdom, cradle of the the city centre, shop in artisan Risorgimento and Italy’s first workshops and stop for a tasty capital in 1861, as well as being bicerin, Turin’s traditional drink an industrial capital and made of espresso coffee, hot is a innovation hub. chocolate and cream. Spoil The most striking feature of this yourself with speciality fine city is, above all, its enormous pastries and chocolates shaped elegance, which pervades the air like little boats – the famous story and is reflected in its grand, gianduiotti. French-style piazzas and in the Pause in Piazza Vittorio, Europe’s splendid Baroque architecture of largest porticoed piazza, with a

Protagonist of history and first capital of Italy, Turin is a city where the past has left traces of great elegance. And today it knows how to experience all the opportunities of the present to project itself into the future.

44 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 45 DESTINATIONS HERE EVERY CITY IS A STORY Alessandria The city of the Borsalino and Marengo

Guerci Gallery

There are hats that have become icons of fashion in the world. They are the Borsalino hats, created and made in Alessandria. A city that has also seen an epochal moment in history, starting with the famous Battle of Marengo.

You can admire the splendid But the town of Alessandria is Valentino Castle in the heart connected with another story Marengo Museum of the city’s largest park of the from international history - the same name. victory of Napoleon Bonaparte Along with other residences of over the Austrians at Marengo in the Savoy dynasty, it is listed 1800. This was a decisive battle by Unesco as a World for Napoleon and enabled him to Heritage Site. A B regain control over Italy. The Juventus of today. Or visit the Carignano and Vittoria theatres. There is one curious fact Marengo Museum at Spinetta, Museum of Sport at the Olympic And if you pass through Turin in about Alessandria - it is the three kilometres from the town, C Stadium and the Museum winter, you will be able to see the home of the Borsalino hat, with its pyramid recalling this many exhibitions and cultural dedicated to the city’s other spectacular Luci d’artista, symbol of Italian design and glorious victory and historical events. panoramic view of the Turin hills. great team – Torino – at nineteen public art installations skilled craftsmanship, and artistic collections, bears The province contains many Keen walkers will discover that, Grugliasco. that illuminate the streets and famous the world over. witness to the special beautiful towns - Casale only two kilometres from the In the evening, go for an aperitif piazzas of the centre, symbol of relationship between the town Monferrato, Acqui Terme, Novi centre are many itineraries to Piazza Vittorio, or the the Piedmont capital’s passion Giuseppe Borsalino founded his and French emperor. Ligure, Ovada, Tortona and offering a great variety of Vanchiglia district where you will for contemporary art. first hat factory in Alessandria The town is full of historic places, Valenza – all set in very different landscapes and natural beauty. find young musicians playing in back in 1857, the first step such as the Cittadella, landscapes, from hillside Don’t forget to visit the basilica of the streets, or to San Salvario, or towards building a successful big masterpiece of European military vineyards to the peaks of the Superga, designed by Filippo the area of the Roman town, business, whose story is told at architecture, Piazza Garibaldi and Piedmont-Liguria Apennine Juvarra, with its unmistakeable where there is a huge choice of the Hat Museum, where you can Piazza della Libertà. Then there is mountains. For Alessandria is on silhouette on the Turin hills and traditional restaurants serving admire about 2000 models, the historic centre with all its the borders of Piedmont, view across the entire city. local specialities such as tajarin, displayed in antique Chippendale Baroque churches and Lombardy and Liguria, three Are you fans of football? Drop egg tagliatelle with meat sauce furniture. The Borsalino has been eighteenth-century noble regions and three cultures that into the Juventus Stadium for a and grated truffle, or beef worn by famous names such as dwellings. In the central piazza, met here throughout the guided tour, illustrating the Club’s braised in Barolo, a typical Charlie Chaplin, Ernest on close inspection, can be seen centuries, giving rise to artistic history through its goals, its Cup Piedmont wine. If you enjoy music Hemingway and Federico Fellini, the medieval broletto (public and architectural masterpieces, Room, the places where it has and theatre you can choose from and has had a film made about it meeting place), the old Town Hall as well as to intriguing products, played, players’ testimonies and the packed programme of with Alain Delon and Jean Paul with its treasures. Close by is dishes, cuisines and flavours. relics of the past, right up to the concerts and plays at the Regio, Belmondo. Palazzo del Monferrato, venue for

46 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 47 DESTINATIONS HERE EVERY CITY IS A STORY Asti Between In Roman Holiday Audrey Hepburn wore a coat made from the wool of Biella! World capital of this the Palio prized thread, Biella is also a city full of monuments, and culture, restaurants, workshops and events

Former woollen mill, now Spumante F Pistoletto – Città dell’Arte Foundation

This hard-working town, National Wine Salon of the Douja d’Or D known worldwide for its Biella wool industry, also offers In September Asti offers fascinating appointments much cultural interest and The antique such as the National Wine Salon of Douja d’Or and a great variety of lovely, unspoilt landscapes in the wisdom of wool the Festival of Food Specialties. Two events that are near vicinity. not-to-be-missed for those who love fine wines, the flavours of tradition and the charm of country life in How can we discover the days gone by. essence of this town? Perhaps by taking one of the wool souvenirs at the Palio market walls. It is worthwhile spending itineraries that wend their way and generally enjoy the party time in the museums and at the through historic factories built Crypt of S. Anastasio atmosphere of the evening Certosa di Valmanera, which on the banks of torrents and before the Palio, when you can houses the precious tapestry watercourses. E have a lot of fun mingling with collection of Ugo Scassa. These factories, now restored, It is interesting to visit Biella Do you want to experience locals, enjoying singing, dancing Asti is also the starting point for have found a new life, often as and discover the two parts into the excitement of a and local cuisine. excursions into the countryside. venues for permanent which the town is divided, the medieval competition? But Asti is more than just the In just a few minutes you can be exhibitions and art exhibitions. Piano and the Piazzo, linked You can, at the Asti Palio. Some examples? The Palio. The town is known deep in the hills of Monferrato, by a quaint funicular railway. Pistoletto-Città dell’Arte worldwide for Asti Spumante, with rows of vines as far as the The Piano (low town) contains Foundation is based in a Come here on the third Sunday in Barbera, grappa and lots of local eye can see in lovely lines, broken some monumental gems such The Baptistry September and you will find them products found in wine and food by the villages, often located in a nineteenth-century woollen as the 11th century Baptistery celebrating, with twelve hundred exhibitions, guided tasting tours, high, strategic position. And now mill, restored to its original and the Cathedral and Bell G participants in medieval costume, festivals and events such as the you must stop at one of the many aspect and now venue for Tower of St. Stephen. In the and you can watch the town’s famous Italian Wine Competition, inns, restaurants or farm cultural events. The former Pria Piazzo (high town) on the hill Maurizio Sella mill, normally districts and the larger the Douja d’Or. accommodations, to get back in mill, now the Spazio Pria, to the west of the Piano is the hosts very interesting municipalities of its province This was a wealthy, powerful contact with nature and taste perched over the Cervo river, central Piazza Cisterna, lively exhibitions of photography. competing in a thrilling horse medieval town, traces of whose the delights of Asti’s cuisine and houses a very rare collection of and crowded especially in The wool-working tradition, summer, thanks to the wine race. It is a good idea to get into past you can discover by visiting wines. textiles samples including – handed down through the bars, small shops and town by the Thursday before the the town centre. There is the would you believe? – the fabric generations, made the fortunes traditional bars and Palio, so you can see the Cathedral, the Collegiata di San used for the coat worn by of famous textile manufacturers restaurants under the historical parade of flag- Secondo, the complex of San Audrey Hepburn in the famous such as Cerruti or Ermenegildo porticoes. throwers, dressed in the colours Pietro in Consavia, the towers, the movie, Roman Holiday. The Zegna. Over 40 outlet stores of their districts, buy some monuments and the ancient Sella Foundation, in the old spread across the territory

48 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 49 DESTINATIONS HERE EVERY CITY IS A STORY offer a chance to buy quality drama of Christ’s Passion in a you to times gone by. A unique The cupola M clothing and fabrics at factory huge, open-air performance. event, not to be missed. Novara of San Gaudenzio prices. A real paradise for keen The next re-enactment will be shoppers! in 2015 and, from June to The heights of emotion In the Biella area and keen to September, the whole town and watch a really special event? its inhabitants will be Get your car and in 15 minutes transformed in actors and There are many spirits of Novara: Roman, medieval, th you can be in Sordevolo, a extras, uniting to put on a huge, Renaissance, Baroque and 19 century. And even small town that since 1815 open-air spectacle that will more are the tastes that one can savour at the tables every 5 years re-enacts the touch your heart, transporting of its restaurants.

The town’s name derives here, there are lots of interesting from its shape, a sort of things to do in the surrounding Piazza Galimberti – aerial view wedge located where the area, like a visit to Staffarda River Stura and Gesso Abbey, one of Piedmont’s key Torrent meet. medieval complexes, or to the Castello della Manta, a What is most striking about this mysterious, fascinating place town? The majestic Piazza containing a precious example of

Galimberti, one of the largest in International Gothic painting, or Broletto L Italy and the ideal place for to Neive, one of Italy’s loveliest delle ore”. enthusiasts of art and culture villages. A stroll around the streets of the and for those who adore There are also two of Piedmont’s centre will give you a more H shopping. Surrounded on all four most important and spectacular detailed visit, so you can discover sides by ten elegant, symmetrical religious monuments: the Novara’s charm can be the many faces of Novara. Not Cuneo buildings in Neoclassical style, Sanctuary of Sant’Anna di glimpsed from far away, only its Roman face, but also its the piazza is lined with porticoes Vinadio, at 2035 metres the thanks to the splendid medieval, Renaissance, Baroque An that run outwards from it for highest in Europe, set in an cupola of the Basilica of San and nineteenth-century ones. Do astonishing eight kilometres. unspoiled natural environment Gaudenzio, the work of not miss the splendid cycle of Mosaic of the floor of the Cathedral N The local cuisine is legendary. surrounded by peaks and lakes, local architect Alessandro frescoes dedicated to the piazza Game, noble mushrooms and and the Sanctuary of Vicoforte, Antonelli, who also Apocalypse and Last Judgement, great stews, as well as rarities whose elliptical cupola is the designed Turin’s Mole. The conserved in the Paleochristian such as the Borgo San Dalmazzo largest in the world. 121-metre high cupola Baptistery, the town’s oldest The city that is “wedged” snail or eels. Do not miss the towers against the blue sky, monument. Nor a visit to the of eggs, sugar and flour (the Italian word for chestnuts, unique and matchless, marking the town’s profile. Cathedral, where you can admire originating in the sixteenth- wedge is cuneo) between the stars of the National Sweet the Chapel of San Siro and the century convents of the town. Chestnut Fair and chief two rivers is home to Cheeses of the Cuneo area I For a truly exciting experience, lovely paintings by Gaudenzio If dining out, a good plate of Italy’s largest piazza. But ingredient of extraordinary take the handy lift up the cupola Ferrari, or to the Broletto, with risotto awaits you in the town also in the vicinity one sweets such as marron glacé, and admire the panorama from the “Paolo e Adele Giannoni” restaurants. Try the famous finds medieval abbeys castagnaccio and Montebianco. this privileged viewpoint. From Gallery of Modern Art. paniscia made of rice, lard, mysterious castles, Then there are the “magnificent the top you can see the plan of After all this culture, take a break salami della duja, beans, carrots, enchanting villages. And four”: local PDO cheeses such as the town below, which dates at Camporelli’s biscuit factory celery, leeks, cabbage and everywhere there is a Murazzano, Bra, Raschera and from Roman times, and the that, since 1852, has been tomatoes. Eat it with mild or renowned gastronomic Castelmagno. structure of the streets, with the producing Novara Biscuits in the strong gorgonzola, the local tradition. If you decide to spend a few days crossroads forming the “Angolo old style, using the simple recipe cheese. 50 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 51 DESTINATIONS HERE EVERY CITY IS A STORY Pallanza Even Dante cited the sweet and harmonious Vercelli landscape of the rice-fields of Vercelli, the European Land of capital of rice. Making this land so fascinating is not only the countryside, but also towers, museums, rice and cathedrals. And extraordinary frescoes. of art

forget to visit Piazza del Duomo communal period. But the heart Verbania and the beautiful Cathedral of of the town is Piazza Cavour, the Sant’Eusebio, where you can old Roman forum, dominated by In the flowers, admire the largest of four the Torre dell’Angelo and crucifixes from the Ottonian surrounded by medieval in the greenery period that have come down to porticoes, where people meet for us, made with silver and gold coffee or an aperitif and where and in the blue leaf. the weekly market is held. Park of Villa Taranto P Panorama at twilight Q Did you know that Vercelli was After a day of culture, stop to O also a key stage on the Via Close your eyes and imagine Vercelli, European capital Francigena? If you were a you are in a wonderful place of rice, has since ancient medieval pilgrim you would have with lots of gardens and A perfect frame of mountains is the setting of times been an important gone through Vercelli, here green countryside, a magnificent villas and splendid parks that are trading hub between Italy meeting many other fellow splendid lake, framed by mirrored in Lago Maggiore. This is the portrait of and the rest of Europe. Its travellers. And then you would mountains. gentle, harmonious have slept in the Salone Verbania and the famous towns that surround it, landscape was mentioned by Dugentesco or one of the many You are in Verbania, on Lago overlooking one of the most beautiful lakes of Italy, Dante in his Divine Comedy. “hospitals” providing lodgings for Maggiore. inspiration over the centuries of musicians and poets. strangers. It seems that during a Whether you have been longing The historic centre contains art stay in one of these lodgings a The frescoes of San Cristoforo R for a romantic weekend or are dahlias. Dahlias, but also roses in Stresa or Baveno. Or be treasures such as the Basilica of pilgrim from the British Isles left simply nature-lovers, this is the and camellias, one of the typical humbled by the force of nature, Sant’Andrea, majestic symbol of behind his copy of a famous book taste the signature dish of the place for you! You can choose flowers of the Lake, which you will venturing into the Val Grande the town, where you can admire written in Old English. Have you town based, of course, on rice: from lots of hotels overlooking also find in the many other Park, Europe’s largest wilderness, the wooden choir stalls and guessed? Yes, it’s the Vercelli panissa, a soup made of rice, the lake, many of which are set in splendid villas, where throughout to be surprised by the majestic splendid Chapter House, the Book, one of the rarest beans, red Barbera wine and peaceful old parks, or you might the year many events dedicated Toce Waterfall, 143 metres high. church of San Cristoforo with the manuscripts of Anglo-Saxon salami de la duja, all cooked in decide to stay in a tastefully to flowers are held. And after a day on the beach or “Sistine Chapel of Vercelli”, an literature, and you can admire it vegetable stock. For dessert, try appointed B&B. The breath-taking view of the playing outdoor sports, what extraordinary cycle of frescoes by in the Capitulary Library of the some bicciolani, traditional There are many things to do here lake set in a coronet of mountains could be better than to sip an Gaudenzio Ferrari, the Borgogna Archbishop’s Palace in Piazza Vercelli biscuits, made with sweet to make your stay memorable. has inspired musicians such as aperitif, before a concert or boat Museum, Piedmont’s most d’Angennes. shortcrust pastry, flavoured with Visit Villa Taranto and its splendid Toscanini, Puccini and Wagner trip under the stars? Everything important art gallery after the If passing through Piazza a secret mix of spices, cinnamon botanic gardens, containing over and writers like Goethe, Dumas, here speaks of beauty, if you Sabauda Gallery in Turin, and the d’Azeglio, admire the outline of to the fore. twenty thousand varieties of Flaubert and Hemingway. Walk, have ears to hear. Leone Museum containing the late 19th-century Synagogue, plants, and admire its lovely as they did, among lemon trees important archaeological while in Piazza Palazzo Vecchio, fountains, waterfalls and ponds. and olives in Cannero Riviera, collections that reconstruct the also known as “Piazza dei Pesci”, Observe the lotus flowers and stroll round the picturesque history of Vercelli from prehistoric are the ancient Broletto and get lost in the labyrinth of streets of Cannobio or daydream times to the Risorgimento. Do not Torre del Comune, relics of the

52 The fascination OF THE ROYAL REGION 53 DESTINATIONS HERE EVERY CITY IS A STORY Sport Shopping

A Archivio ATL Biella - A Andrea Cherchi Monferrato Photo antonio Canevarolo B Archivio Alexala credits B Archivio Alexala C Archivio ATL Biella C Archivio ATL Biella - D Archivio Alexala antonio Canevarolo E Archivio Camera

Contents D Archivio ATL Novara - di Commercio di Alessandria Giorgio Piccaia F Archivio ATL Biella

A Pierandrea Monni E Archivio ATL Vercelli G Andrea Cherchi B Archivio ATL Biella e Valsesia C Archivio Camera Destinations di Commercio di Asti Spas A D Roberto Maggioni Archivio Città di Torino - A Terme di Premia srl - Bruna Biamino

CulturE alex Chichi B Archivio Alexala B Archivio ATL del Cuneese C Archivio Alexala

A Archivio ATL Biella D Archivio Camera B Bruna Biamino Food di Commercio di Asti C Giovanni Fontana E Archivio Comune di Asti A D Giovanni Fontana Archivio Camera F Archivio ATL Biella - E Turismo Torino e Provincia di Commercio di Asti stefano Ceretti B F Archivio Alexala Archivio Alexala G Archivio ATL Biella - C G Archivio ATL Vercelli Pierandrea Monni lyle Roblin e Valsesia D Archivio Assopiemonte H Archivio Fotobedino Studio 45 H Filippo Ceretti DOP e IGP di Cucchietti Alberto - Busca E I Andrea Lazzarini Editore Archivio Camera I Archivio Camera L Turismo Torino e Provincia di Commercio di Alessandria di Commercio di Cuneo F M Archivio ATL Asti Archivio ATL Vercelli L Archivio ATL Novara e Valsesia M Archivio ATL Novara -

NaturE mattia Piazzano Wine N Archivio ATL Novara - A Giancarlo Parazzoli mario Finotti A B Archivio ATL Vercelli Archivio Camera O Roberto Maggioni e Valsesia di Commercio di Asti P Ente Giardini Botanici B Archivio Ente Turismo Alba villa Taranto Lakes Bra Langhe Roero Q Andrea Cherchi C Archivio Ente Turismo Alba R Andrea Cherchi A Giancarlo Parazzoli Bra Langhe Roero B SAG srl D Ivano Piva C SAG srl E Aldo Pavan The official Tourism Board of