What to see in Novara: 15 stops with map for a cultural weekend

The Basilica of San Gaudenzio is the undisputed symbol of Novara, recognizable from kilometers away thanks to its imposing dome designed by Alessandro Antonelli. When arriving in the city, it's the first monument that catches your eye, with its 121-meter height making it one of the tallest masonry structures in Italy. The main entrance is located in Piazza Martiri della Libertà, right in the heart of the historic center. Inside, the atmosphere is solemn and intimate: the central nave leads to the main altar where the relics of San Gaudenzio, the city's patron saint, are preserved. The original basilica dates back to the 16th century, but it was Antonelli's intervention in the 19th century that gave it its current appearance, with that dome that seems to defy the laws of physics. Climbing to the panoramic terrace (when accessible) offers a 360-degree view of Novara and the surrounding hills. The evening lighting enhances the structure's majesty, creating light plays that make it even more spectacular. For a complete visit, don't miss the crypt and the attached museum, where you can discover the construction's history through original drawings and artifacts. Practical tip: always check opening hours as they may vary depending on religious celebrations.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta dominates Piazza della Repubblica with its neoclassical facade, designed by Alessandro Antonelli. Upon entering, you'll immediately notice the Latin cross floor plan and the three naves defined by granite columns. The interior houses masterpieces such as the polyptych by Gaudenzio Ferrari, a Renaissance gem, and the Baroque high altar. Descending into the crypt reveals Romanesque remains of the previous building, dating back to the 11th century. The cathedral is Novara's religious heart, serving as the bishop's seat since the 4th century. Be sure to admire the octagonal dome and the 17th-century paintings along the naves. Admission is free, with opening hours varying between morning and afternoon. For a comprehensive visit, allow time for the crypt and the adjacent Paleochristian baptistery, one of the oldest in Piedmont.

The Visconti - Sforza Castle of Novara is the historic heart of the city, an imposing fortress that tells centuries of dominations and battles. Built in the 14th century at the behest of Galeazzo II Visconti, the castle underwent numerous transformations under the Sforzas, becoming a unique example of Renaissance military architecture in Piedmont. Today it presents itself with its massive towers and dry moat, elements that immediately capture attention. The main entrance, with its brick portal, leads to inner courtyards where time seems to have stood still. Inside, the spaces are divided between visitable areas and institutional headquarters, including the Prefecture and the Province of Novara. Despite the modifications undergone over the centuries, especially during the Spanish occupation, the castle preserves evident traces of its glorious past. The frescoed halls, although not always accessible, testify to the elegance of the courts that resided here. The surrounding park, with its tree-lined avenues, offers a relaxing atmosphere for a break after the visit. It's interesting to note how the castle also served as a prison and barracks in later eras, adding layers of history to its already rich heritage. For those visiting Novara, it's an essential stop not only for its architectural importance but also to understand the events that shaped the city. The best spots for taking photos are from the south side, where the towers and perimeter walls are best appreciated.

The Coccia Theatre is Novara's main theatre, located in Piazza Martiri della Libertà. Inaugurated in 1888, it replaced the former Morelli Theatre and was named after the Novarese musician Carlo Coccia. The building, designed by architect Giuseppe Oliverio, features a neoclassical façade with a six-column Corinthian pronaos that gives it an immediate elegance. Inside, the horseshoe-shaped hall, typical of Italian-style theatres, is enriched with golden stuccoes, red velvets, and a frescoed ceiling by Giovanni Battista Garberoglio, creating a sumptuous atmosphere. With a capacity of around 900 seats, the theatre hosts a rich season of drama, opera, ballet, and concerts, as well as cultural events and festivals for all ages. The acoustics are remarkable, appreciated by artists and audiences alike. The spacious and decorated foyer welcomes visitors before performances, while the lounge offers a space for meetings and temporary exhibitions. During guided tours, it is possible to access the stage and dressing rooms, discovering backstage secrets and anecdotes. The theatre is easily reachable on foot from the historic centre and has facilities for disabled visitors. I recommend checking the online schedule so as not to miss the events on the programme, often with affordable tickets. It is a place where tradition blends with contemporary cultural vibrancy, ideal for a different kind of evening.

The Palazzo and Arengo del Broletto is the historic heart of Novara, an architectural complex that encapsulates centuries of city life. Located in Piazza della Repubblica, opposite the Cathedral, this ensemble of medieval buildings represents the center of civil power since the 12th century. The term 'Broletto' derives from the Latin 'brolium', which referred to the enclosed courtyard where municipal councils gathered. Today you can admire four distinct palaces connected by porticoes and loggias: Palazzo del Comune, Palazzo del Podestà, Palazzo dei Paratici, and Palazzo dei Referendari. The Arengo, the open loggia on the ground floor, was the place where the population gathered to hear official announcements. Look closely at the Romanesque capitals decorating the columns, each with unique vegetal motifs and symbolic figures. Inside, the courtyards preserve the original medieval atmosphere, with stone wells and brick staircases. The complex now houses municipal offices and exhibition spaces but remains accessible to visitors who wish to breathe in the essence of historic Novara. The Arengo Hall, with its coffered ceiling, is particularly evocative during cultural events. Notice how the architecture blends different styles: from the Lombard Romanesque of the porticoes to the Gothic of the bifora windows. Its central location makes it a must-see stop on any Novara itinerary, perfect for a break between monuments.

If you're looking for an immersion in modern art without having to reach the big cities, the Paolo and Adele Giannoni Modern Art Gallery is the answer. Located within the Broletto complex in Novara's historic center, this gallery houses the collection donated by the Giannoni couple in 1938. The exhibition path winds through over 300 works, with a particular focus on Italian painting from the 19th and 20th centuries. Among the prominent names are Giovanni Fattori, Silvestro Lega, and Plinio Nomellini, representatives of the Macchiaioli and Divisionist movements. The section dedicated to the 20th century includes works by Felice Casorati and Giorgio Morandi, offering a journey through the artistic currents that marked Italy. The setup is essential and well-curated, with bright rooms that enhance the paintings without distractions. Admission is free, a significant detail for those traveling on a tight budget. The gallery is easily reachable on foot from the central Piazza della Repubblica, ideal for a cultural break during your city visit. I recommend dedicating at least an hour to appreciate the main works and read the captions, which provide context without being too lengthy. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious, this space offers an authentic experience away from the more crowded circuits.

The Ferrandi Faraggiana Natural History Museum is a delightful surprise in the heart of Novara, a place where science meets history in a way that's accessible to everyone. Located on Via Gaudenzio Ferrari, it occupies part of an ancient noble palace that's worth visiting in its own right. The collection originated from Alessandro Ferrandi's passion, later enriched by the Faraggiana family's bequest, and today boasts over 10,000 specimens including mammals, birds, insects, and minerals. The diorama room is one of the highlights: environmental reconstructions showing animals in their natural habitats, perfect for understanding biodiversity without lengthy explanations. Among the most interesting pieces is the sperm whale skeleton, impressive for its size and state of preservation, and the collection of taxidermied birds that includes rare species like the golden eagle. The museum is organized into thematic sections: zoology, entomology, mineralogy. Don't expect interactive technologies or ultra-modern displays; here the value lies in the authenticity of the historical collections, many dating back to the 19th century. The herbarium with dried plants from the Novara area is another gem, useful for those wanting to explore the local flora. The atmosphere is intimate, ideal for a quiet visit without crowds. I recommend dedicating at least an hour to appreciate the details, perhaps focusing on the most intriguing display cases like the one dedicated to Piedmont fossils. Staff are available for questions, but the labels are clear and concise. If traveling with children, they'll find immediate visual stimulation here, especially with the life-sized animals. Paid admission, with discounts for students and groups. Check the hours on the official website as they may vary on holidays.

The Canonical Museums of Novara Cathedral immerse you in the heart of the city's religious and artistic history. Located within the episcopal complex adjacent to the Cathedral, these museum spaces house archaeological finds from the Roman and medieval periods unearthed during excavations in the area. The visit unfolds through the Chapel of San Siro, where you can admire fourteenth-century frescoes from the Giotto school, and the Canonical Cloister with its Romanesque capitals. Among the most significant pieces stand out the eighteenth-century sacred vestments and the Cathedral Treasury with precious chalices and reliquaries. The modern exhibition guides you through centuries of local history, showing how Novara was already an important centre in Roman times. The central location makes the visit convenient to combine with the Cathedral and the Broletto. Admission is often included in combined tickets with other city museums, a practical option for those wishing to deepen their knowledge of Novara.

The Albertina Barrier is one of the most significant historical symbols of Novara, an imposing structure that once marked the main entrance to the city. Built in 1837 based on a design by Lombard architect Giacomo Moraglia, this monumental gate takes its name from Carlo Alberto of Savoy and represents a perfect example of Piedmontese neoclassical architecture. Its strategic position along the road axis connecting Novara to Milan highlighted its importance as a customs control point and urban access. Today, the Albertina Barrier presents itself as an elegant two-story building with a central portico framing the pedestrian and vehicular passage. Its Doric columns and stone decorations create a majestic effect, while the two side wings that once housed the customs offices retain their 19th-century charm intact. The structure has recently been restored, bringing the original architectural details back to light and enhancing its function as a meeting point between the historic center and the peripheral areas. Walking under its central arch gives the sensation of crossing a true temporal gateway, leaving modernity behind to immerse oneself in the atmosphere of ancient Novara. The square in front, now a pedestrian area, has become a place for rest and socialization, while the evening lighting enhances the majesty of the structure. For those visiting Novara, the Albertina Barrier represents not only a monument to photograph but an ideal starting point to explore the historic center, located just steps away from the Basilica of San Gaudenzio and the Cathedral.

If you're passing through Novara, Casa Bossi is truly worth a stop. This historic palace is located on Corso Cavour, right in the city center, and immediately catches the eye with its elegant Neoclassical facade. Built in the first half of the 19th century based on a design by Alessandro Antonelli, the architect who shaped Novara with works like the dome of San Gaudenzio, Casa Bossi showcases a meticulous attention to detail that makes it unique. Take a close look at the wrought-iron balconies and decorations: these finishes tell the story of the era's taste. Inside, the rooms preserve original stuccoes and floors, with grand staircases leading to the noble floors. Today, part of the spaces can be visited during cultural events or exhibitions, offering a chance to explore the interiors as well. It's an example of how 19th-century bourgeois architecture left its mark on the city, without the excesses of aristocratic palaces but with a refinement that speaks of Novara as it once was. Perfect for a stop during a stroll through the center, it will gift you photogenic glimpses and a dive into local history. Tip: check the opening hours, as it's not always freely accessible.

Casa della Porta is one of those places that often goes unnoticed, but once discovered, reveals an important piece of Novara's history. Located at 14 Via Canobio, just steps from the Duomo, this 18th-century noble residence impresses with its sober and elegant neoclassical facade. It's not a museum, but a private building that nevertheless allows itself to be admired from the outside, showing how civil architecture has characterized the historic center. Its strategic position in the heart of the ancient city makes it a natural stop during a walk through the cobblestone alleys. By observing the details of the windows and the entrance portal, one understands why it represents a well-preserved example of the period's style. There are no visiting hours or tickets, but it's worth stopping for a few minutes to appreciate the harmony of its lines and the atmosphere it emanates. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the less touristy side of Novara, one made up of palaces that have witnessed daily life unfolding over the centuries. A tip: combine it with a visit to Casa Bossi, located nearby, for a comparison between different architectural periods.

If you're looking for a corner of Novara that tells stories of nobility and power, Tornielli Palace is an unmissable stop. Located on Via Fratelli Rosselli, right in the historic center, this 18th-century building impresses with its neoclassical facade, elegant and understated, with framed windows and a majestic portal that immediately lets you know you're in front of something special. Built for the Tornielli family, one of the most influential in the city, the palace has been a symbol of local prestige for centuries. Today, it houses public offices, but don't be fooled: the interior preserves frescoed halls and period decorations that you can admire during opening hours, especially if you join guided tours or cultural events organized periodically. Its strategic location, just steps from the Basilica of San Gaudenzio and the Broletto, makes it perfect to include in a walking itinerary. Notice the architectural details, such as the wrought-iron balconies and window frames, which reflect the style of the era. For a complete visit, check the access hours, as some areas might be reserved for institutional activities. It's a place that combines history and functionality, ideal for those who want to discover an authentic side of Novara, away from the tourist crowds.

Casalgiate Castle is located just a few kilometers from the center of Novara, in a secluded position that enhances its historical charm. This manor dates back to the 14th century and features a typically medieval structure, with massive towers and sturdy walls that tell centuries of local history. Originally built as a defensive fortification, over time it was transformed into a noble residence while maintaining its austere character. Public access is limited to specific occasions or by reservation, so it's advisable to check before visiting. The exterior is clearly visible from the road and offers picturesque views, especially at sunset when the ancient stones take on warm hues. The surrounding area is characterized by cultivated fields and rows of poplars, typical of the Novara agricultural landscape. For photography enthusiasts, the castle offers particularly photogenic angles, especially from the south side where the original moat can be glimpsed. Despite the modifications it has undergone over the centuries, it preserves interesting architectural elements such as the bifora windows and Ghibelline battlements. The visit requires little time but provides an authentic immersion into the rural history of the territory.

The Omarini Garden is a peaceful corner in Novara's historic center, just steps away from the Basilica of San Gaudenzio. This green space, named after Novarese engineer Luigi Omarini, has been revitalized to provide a resting and relaxation area for both locals and visitors. It's not a large park, but its strategic location makes it ideal for a break after exploring nearby monuments. Here you'll find shaded benches, well-kept flowerbeds, and an intimate atmosphere that invites you to linger. It's particularly appreciated for its accessibility and as an informal meeting spot. If you're looking for a place to breathe in Novara's atmosphere without leaving the city center, Omarini Garden is the perfect choice. Bring a book or simply enjoy the quiet, away from the traffic. There are no special facilities like cafes or children's playgrounds, but this contributes to its simple and authentic character. It's a place that tells the city's story through its public space, unpretentious yet with a distinct identity.

The monument to the Fallen of the World Wars is located in Piazza Martiri della Libertà, in the historic center of Novara. It's not just a commemorative work, but a place of reflection that strikes you with its sobriety and power. Made of marble and bronze, it depicts a dying soldier supported by an allegorical female figure, symbolizing the Homeland. The sculpture is surrounded by slabs with the names of Novara's fallen in war, a list that makes you understand how deeply conflicts have marked this community. The location is strategic: just steps from the Broletto and the Basilica di San Gaudenzio, it allows you to easily include this stop in your city itinerary. Visiting it doesn't require more than 10-15 minutes, but its emotional impact lasts long. Observe the details: the facial expressions, the engravings, the balance of forms. It's a work that speaks without needing many words, ideal for a moment of contemplation during your city exploration. The monument is always accessible and free, and when illuminated in the evening it creates a particularly suggestive atmosphere.