the twin stones

The state road connecting Vercelli to Valsesia is dotted with enchanting alpine villages and, continuing north-westwards, the very last one encountered is Alagna Valsesia.

It is said that a large stone once rolled down the mountainside. On impact with the valley floor, it split into two equal parts that stood face to face. According to tradition, these are the “twin stones”, which you see between the state road and the Sesia river, a little less than halfway between Riva Valdobbia and Alagna. They gave the name to the community that until 1475 comprised the entire territory of Riva Valdobbia and Alagna. After a long period of independence, the two municipalities united again on 1 January 2019. And the city itinerary starts precisely from the charming town of Riva Valdobbia. A word of advice: a few kilometres before entering Riva Valdobbia, don’t miss the amazing scenic view of the majestic south-east face of Mount Rosa. It certainly deserves a souvenir picture!

At the centre of this pretty village, beautifully framed by the Valsesian mountains, stands the imposing parish church of St. Michael the Archangel. The gaze is instantly drawn to the striking fresco on the façade, depicting the Last Judgement in the Nordic style. It is generally attributed to Melchiorre d’Enrico, younger brother of the better-known Tanzio da Varallo. The church is considered a national monument not only for the grandiose fresco on the façade, but also for the works of sacred art that are preserved inside, testifying to the important artistic tradition that has characterised the culture of Valsesia for centuries.

Before proceeding to Alagna, stroll through the historical alleyways of Riva Valdobbia and turn your gaze towards the snow-capped peaks of the Alps: it will be an unforgettable experience!

sports and outdoor activities

Unspoilt nature, evocative landscapes that take your breath away, pleasant valleys furrowed by crystal-clear streams in a silence that is at times almost unreal; places that retain the traits of art, architecture and local tradition. It is in this unique environment that Alagna Valsesia welcomes visitors.

Alagna is also and above all the byword for sports and outdoor activities, a true paradise for those who love active outdoor holidays. The area offers many trekking and MTB itineraries for all levels, winding through forests, historic villages, mountain lakes and alpine pastures close to the majestic Mount Rosa massif. And then again paragliding, river sports, climbing and several via ferrata: discover all the summer sports to practice in Alagna and the surrounding area!

In winter, Alagna Valsesia and the Monterosa Ski area offer ski and freeride enthusiasts countless adrenaline-filled slopes with varying degrees of difficulty where fun is guaranteed. Alagna rises at an altitude of 1,200 m and is known throughout the world as the Freeride Paradise. Here, the skilled skier can embark on thrilling descents on untouched snow in a breathtaking setting.

A day of sports and exercise is sure to work up an appetite, and while sometimes a miaccia, a typical crispy wafer to be stuffed sweet or savoury, is enough to appease the hunger, at other times a tasty polenta concia or a delicious plate of risotto alla toma cheese is much needed. Alagna guarantees a memorable food and wine experience!

THE HISTORIC CITY CENTRE OF GATTINARA

The city tour can easily begin in the historical city centre, whose regular layout dates back to the foundation of the medieval tax-free town (burgfrieden) in 1242, where traces of the Romanesque origins are preserved, underscoring the city’s antiquity and cultural relevance. The history of Gattinara is closely linked to that of the Arborio family, to which one of the greatest European politicians and diplomats of the early 16th century belonged: Mercurino Arborio.

St. Peter’s Church is the first stop on this itinerary. Rebuilt in 1881 in neoclassical forms on a previously existing Roman building, the Church of St. Peter is a typical view of Gattinara. The dome of the building is one of the first Italian constructions made of reinforced brick.

Not far away stands the Palazzo di Città, the current seat of the Town Hall. Originally the residence of the Marquis Arborio Gattinara, it was designed by the architect Delmastro from Gattinara. Then there is Palazzo Arborio, built around 1450 and now home to the Gattinara Cultural Association. The interior, which preserves precious frescoes, can be visited by appointment.

THE HIGH CITY: THE CASTELLE TOWER, THE CASTLE OF ST. LAWRENCE AND THE GIANT BENCH

On the top of one of the highest hills in the area stands the Castle of St. Lawrence, built in 1187 by the Vercelli Municipality to guard the valley. Abandoned around the 17th century, only the ruins of the fortification remain today. The large entrance gate is still intact. The remains of the central keep and the Church of St. Lawrence can be seen within. The Castle of St. Lawrence, which can be reached by an easy uphill walk, is one of the best vantage points in the area, offering a beautiful view of the city and surrounding hills.

Another particularly popular vantage point is the square in front of the Castelle Tower square, which offers an enchanting view of the Gattinara vineyards. It is located a short distance from the town centre, which can be reached with a 15-minute walk or more conveniently by car. The Tower, now an undisputed symbol of the town, dates back to the 11th century and is a vivid testimony to the important medieval fortified complex that surrounded the entire hillside area. The view is enchanting, especially on a clear day when you can admire Mount Rosa framing the Gattinara hills for a truly unique scenic impression! A few metres from the Tower, it is a must to take a moment for an original selfie sitting on the Giant Bench. The one in Gattinara is number 35 and is red, as red is the excellent wine produced here.