The Asti area is rich in history, tradition and works of art, and should be thoroughly explored. The first stage of any tour must be Asti, one of the most important cities of art in Piedmont and birthplace of Vittorio Alfieri, the famous 18th century poet and dramatist. The old town is picturesque and charming, opening onto the triangular shaped Piazza Alfieri, where the town’s famous Palio (horse race) is staged.
Among the architectural landmarks are noble palaces, towers and ancient churches, and the magnificent gothic cathedral.
The northern part of the territory offers a fascinating route retracing the ancient via Fracigena to discover quaint towns, such as Cortazzone with its Romanesque church, Montechiaro with the Santi Nazario e Celso church, Passerano Marmorito with its castle and Cocconato. The medieval churches surrounded by the countryside of Asti are enchanting, such as the Church of San Lorenzo in Montiglio and the abbey of Santa Maria di Vezzolano in Albugnano, one of the best examples of the Romanesque style in Piedmont.
All over the territory there are imposing castles, ancient dwellings of local nobles, such as the Castiglione d’Asti castle, which every year hosts the “asta del barbera” (Barbera wine auction). Of particular interest is also the majestic Gancia castle – visits inside are not allowed – overlooking Canelli, which is famous for the production of Asti Spumante.
In this land, turned over to vine growing and wine production , the museums of rural life are worth visiting, such as the museum of crafts and trades of times long past in the splendid castle of Cisterna d’Asti and the “Museo di contadinerie Bersano e raccolta di stampe antiche sul vino” (a farming museum with a collection of old prints telling the story of wine) in Nizza Monferrato.
An important religious centre is Castelnuovo Don Dosco, where the Colle don Bosco is located, the birthplace of Saint Giovanni Bosco and the modern Shrine, visited by pilgrims from all over the world.