What to see in Vercelli: 15 stops between Gothic art, medieval towers and museums

The Basilica of Sant'Andrea is the monument that best represents Vercelli, a Gothic masterpiece that leaves you breathless the moment you see it. Built in the 13th century, it was one of the first Gothic churches in Italy, immediately noticeable from its brick and white marble facade, with that central rose window that captures your gaze. Upon entering, you're struck by the polygonal apse and the rib vaults that seem to defy gravity. Don't miss the adjacent cloister, a peaceful corner with arches and columns that make you forget you're in the city center. Inside, look for the funerary monument of Tommaso Gallo, a sculptural work that tells stories from centuries ago. The basilica is also linked to the Via Francigena, with many pilgrims still passing through today. If you visit Vercelli, this is where you understand the blend of art and history that characterizes the area, without needing complicated tours: just step inside, look around, and let the architecture speak to you. Details like the stained glass windows and carved capitals are worth the trip alone.

The Cathedral of Saint Eusebius is Vercelli's oldest place of worship, founded in the 4th century by the city's first bishop. Unfortunately, the original building has been lost, but what you see today is a fascinating mix of styles that tells centuries of history. The neoclassical facade by architect Augusto Cavallari Murat hides an interior that will surprise you: majestic naves and side chapels rich with artworks. Don't miss the 10th-century wooden crucifix, one of the most precious treasures, and the Chapel of Blessed Amadeus IX with its Renaissance frescoes. The crypt deserves an in-depth visit: here are preserved the relics of Saint Eusebius and other local saints. Look carefully at the Romanesque bell tower that rises beside the cathedral - it's what remains of the ancient medieval construction. The atmosphere is intimate and spiritual, far from the tourist crowds of big cities. Admission is free, but check the opening hours because visits might be limited during religious services. The cathedral is located in Piazza Sant'Eusebio, easily reachable on foot from the historic center. A tip: if you visit the cathedral, don't forget to also take a look at the Cathedral Treasure Museum nearby, where valuable sacred vestments and liturgical objects are displayed.

The Visconti Castle in Vercelli is one of the most fascinating testimonies of the Visconti family's power in Piedmont. Built in the 14th century at the behest of Galeazzo II Visconti, this imposing building still dominates the city skyline with its massive structure and corner towers. Despite the transformations it has undergone over time, it retains its original military character intact, with thick walls and narrow windows that tell centuries of history. Today the castle houses the Luigi Bruzza Civic Archaeological Museum, where you can admire Roman and medieval artifacts that illustrate the rich history of the Vercelli area. Its strategic location, close to the historic center but slightly set back, offers an unusual atmosphere of tranquility for a city. It's worth observing the architectural details up close, such as the Ghibelline battlements and the remains of the drawbridge, which testify to the building's defensive function. The interior, with its spacious halls, often hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events. For those visiting Vercelli, the Visconti Castle offers a dive into Piedmontese medieval history, away from the beaten path but rich in authenticity.

The Vercelli Synagogue, located on Via Emanuele Filiberto, has been an active Jewish place of worship since 1878. Designed by architect Marco Treves, it features a unique Moorish-Byzantine style with oriental influences, unparalleled in Piedmont. The external facade, simple and brick-built, conceals a richly decorated interior: the main hall is dominated by the Aron HaKodesh (the holy ark) in carved and gilded wood, while the women's gallery, once reserved for women, is accessible via a side staircase. The stained glass windows filter the light, creating an evocative atmosphere enhanced by brass chandeliers and Jewish symbols painted on the walls. The Jewish community of Vercelli, one of the oldest in Northern Italy, has its focal point here: services for the main holidays are still celebrated today. The synagogue can be visited by appointment, often combined with the adjacent Jewish Museum, which displays ritual objects and historical documents. An interesting detail: the building stands in the area of the former ghetto, abolished in 1848, as a testament to a history of integration and resilience. For those seeking an authentic cultural experience, it is a fundamental piece to understand Vercelli beyond rice.

The Francesco Borgogna Museum is a jewel in the heart of Vercelli, housed in an elegant 19th-century palace that was once the residence of its namesake collector. Here you'll find one of the most important collections in Piedmont, with paintings ranging from the Renaissance to the 19th century. The rooms are furnished with period furniture, creating an atmosphere that makes you feel like a guest in an aristocratic home. Don't miss the section dedicated to Piedmontese landscapes and family portraits, which tell the story of life in that era. The museum frequently organizes temporary exhibitions and educational activities, ideal for those who want to delve deeper. Admission is charged, but there are discounts for students and seniors over 65. Check the opening hours on the official website: it's usually closed on Mondays. It's a quiet place, perfect for a one or two-hour visit, away from the crowds. I recommend taking a stroll in the internal garden too, a little-known peaceful corner.

The Civic Theatre of Vercelli is a place that surprises with its discreet elegance. Built between 1841 and 1843 based on architect Giuseppe Locarni's design, it stands in the historic centre, just steps away from the Basilica of Sant'Andrea. The neoclassical facade, with its columned portico, conceals an interior rich in details: the horseshoe-shaped hall, typical of nineteenth-century theatres, is adorned with golden stuccoes and red velvets. With a capacity of about 400 seats, the theatre maintains an intimate and cosy atmosphere, perfect for drama performances, concerts, and operas. Its acoustics are renowned among artists, thanks to the careful selection of materials and the shape of the hall. Today, the Civic Theatre is managed by the Fondazione Teatro Civico di Vercelli and hosts a rich season of events, from opera to contemporary theatre. During your visit, don't miss the foyer, where portraits of artists and composers linked to the theatre's history are displayed. It is a vibrant place, breathing culture all year round, and represents a landmark for the Vercelli community. For those visiting Vercelli, a stop here is a must: even just admiring its architecture is worth the trip.

Piazza Camillo Benso Conte di Cavour is the true nerve center of Vercelli, the meeting point between past and present. Here you find yourself surrounded by historic buildings that tell centuries of city history, with their elegant facades overlooking this spacious and welcoming square. The square takes its name from the famous Piedmontese statesman, but the people of Vercelli simply call it Piazza Cavour, as if it were an old friend. Look closely at the pavement: it's not just simple paving, but a mosaic that creates precise geometric patterns, producing a unique visual effect when sunlight dances across it. In the center, you'll often find temporary market stalls or event setups, because this square isn't just a monument to look at, but a place lived in every day. Early morning is the realm of commuters rushing through, while in the afternoon it comes alive with families, students, and tourists stopping for a break. The porticoes that border it offer shelter from the summer sun and rain, inviting you to pause and watch the comings and goings. You'll notice that many buildings still preserve historic signs and valuable architectural details, testaments to when Vercelli was an important commercial and cultural center. The square serves as a natural crossroads to other points of interest: from here you can easily reach the Basilica of Sant'Andrea or the Teatro Civico, following the flow of people crossing through. In the evening, when the lights come on, the atmosphere becomes more intimate and cozy, perfect for an aperitivo at one of the nearby establishments. It's not a monumental and overwhelming square, but has the discreet charm of places that know how to be both representative and everyday.

The Luigi Bruzza Civic Archaeological Museum is a hidden gem in the heart of Vercelli, housed in the former Monastery of Santa Chiara. Here, history comes alive through artifacts that narrate the city's evolution from prehistoric times to the early Middle Ages. The permanent collection is organized into several sections: highlights include Bronze Age materials discovered in the Vercelli area, evidence of Roman Vercelli - such as the funerary inscription of Lucius Valerius - and burial goods from Lombard necropolises. The standout piece is the Lussonio Stele, a stone inscription documenting Celtic presence in the territory. The rooms dedicated to the Roman era preserve amphorae, ceramics, and coins that illustrate trade and daily life. Particularly interesting is the medieval section, with artifacts from excavations at the Cathedral and the Basilica of Sant'Andrea. The museum also offers rich photographic and cartographic documentation that helps contextualize the findings. The exhibition is clear and well-organized, with explanatory panels in Italian and English. Admission is free, making it an accessible stop for everyone. It's located at Via San Michele 8, just steps from the historic center. I recommend dedicating at least an hour to fully appreciate the collection, perhaps combining the visit with the nearby Church of San Cristoforo for a comprehensive journey through Vercelli's art.

The Pietro Camana Municipal Public Gardens are Vercelli's green lung, a place where art and nature blend in a relaxing atmosphere. Located in the historic centre, these gardens offer a pleasant break from visiting the city's monuments. The park is named after Pietro Camana, a local benefactor who contributed to its creation, and stands out for its geometric flowerbeds filled with seasonal flowers and ornamental plants. Strolling along the tree-lined avenues, you'll encounter specimens of centuries-old plane trees and linden trees, creating ideal shaded areas for a rest. At the centre of the park, a stone fountain adds a touch of elegance, while well-positioned benches invite you to stop and observe the daily life of Vercelli's residents. The gardens are particularly appreciated for their meticulous care, with always tidy flowerbeds and clean paths. They are a meeting point for families, who bring their children to play in the dedicated areas, and for those seeking a moment of tranquillity away from traffic. During spring, the blooms of tulips and roses provide vibrant colours, while in autumn the tree leaves paint the park in warm hues. The Camana Gardens are also an example of 19th-century landscape architecture, with a design reminiscent of English parks but adapted to Italian style. Their central location makes them easily accessible on foot from the Basilica of Sant'Andrea or the Borgogna Museum, allowing you to include them effortlessly in a cultural itinerary. For those visiting Vercelli, stopping here is a way to savour the slow pace of the city, perhaps with a book in hand or simply enjoying the silence broken only by birdsong. A tip: bring a snack and take advantage of the benches for a quick picnic, immersed in greenery.

The Cloister of Sant'Andrea is one of those places that makes you forget you're in the city center. As soon as you cross the entrance, the traffic noise disappears and you find yourself in a perfectly preserved oasis of tranquility. This fifteenth-century cloister was part of the Augustinian monastic complex and today is a corner of Vercelli where time seems to have stood still. The terracotta arcades surrounding the central courtyard are an example of Lombard Renaissance architecture, with decorated capitals that deserve careful observation. In the center, a stone well recalls the daily life that took place here centuries ago. What strikes you is the atmosphere: despite being just steps from Piazza Cavour, an almost unreal silence reigns here. The cloister is often used for temporary exhibitions and cultural events, but even when empty it's worth a visit. The covered loggias offer shelter on rainy days and coolness on summer ones. Special note: look closely at the column details - some feature carvings and symbols that tell stories of those who lived here. It's a place where you can sit on a bench and enjoy a few minutes of peace, away from the city chaos. Access is free and opening hours are generally generous, but it's best to check beforehand as it sometimes closes for private events.

The Town Hall Tower is one of the most recognizable symbols of Vercelli's historic center, an imposing medieval structure that rises majestically among the ancient buildings. Built in the 13th century as part of the city's defensive system, this red brick tower reaches a height of approximately 38 meters and represents one of the few surviving examples of medieval civil architecture in Vercelli. Its strategic location, near Piazza Palazzo Vecchio, makes it a visual landmark for navigating the labyrinth of streets in the center. The tower has undergone several restoration interventions over the centuries but retains its austere and imposing character intact. Today, it is not accessible internally, but its exterior still deserves a stop to admire the architectural details and the beautiful crenellation that crowns the structure. Observing the base, traces of its ancient defensive function can still be seen, with massive masonry that testifies to the typical construction solidity of the era. The tower fits perfectly into the urban context, engaging in dialogue with the surrounding historic buildings and offering an authentic glimpse of medieval Vercelli. For visitors to the city, it represents an essential stop to understand the urban and architectural evolution of the historic center.

The Avogadro Tower is one of the most recognizable symbols of Vercelli's historic center, a medieval structure that rises imposingly among ancient palaces. Built in the 13th century as part of the city's defensive system, this tower was part of the residential complex of the powerful Avogadro family, which for centuries played a central role in Vercelli's history. The tower stands out for its exposed brick structure and massive appearance, typical of the military architecture of the period. Today it appears as a well-preserved monument despite the centuries, maintaining its ancient charm intact. Its location in the heart of the historic center makes it easily visible during a walk along the cobblestone streets. It is not accessible inside, but its exterior still deserves a stop to admire its architectural details. The tower represents an important example of medieval civil architecture in Piedmont and testifies to the period when Vercelli was a fortified commune. It is located just steps away from other significant monuments like the Basilica of Sant'Andrea, creating an ideal route to discover medieval Vercelli. Its presence helps define the historic character of the city center, offering an authentic glimpse into the past of the European capital of rice.

The Vialardi Tower is one of the most recognizable symbols of Vercelli's historic center, an imposing medieval structure that rises prominently among the ancient buildings. Built in the 13th century as part of the city's defensive system, this red brick tower belonged to the powerful Vialardi family, one of the most influential noble houses of the era. Today it stands with its slender structure and characteristic arrow slits that recall its original function of surveillance and defense. The location is strategic: it's situated in the heart of the historic center, just steps from the Basilica of Sant'Andrea and the Borgogna Museum. While the interior is not accessible to visitors, its external charm alone justifies a stop. Observe it from below to appreciate the perfect preservation of the bricks and the elegance of the Gothic forms. The tower represents an exceptional example of medieval civil architecture in Piedmont, having survived the centuries despite urban transformations. Its massive bulk contrasts pleasantly with the surrounding buildings, creating a scenic effect that immediately captures attention. For a memorable photo, position yourself on Via Galileo Ferraris and frame the tower against the sky: the effect is guaranteed. In the evening, artificial lighting enhances its volumes, creating a suggestive atmosphere. A practical tip: combine your visit to the tower with that of the nearby Avogadro Tower for a direct comparison between two important testimonies of Vercelli's defensive architecture.

The Bell Tower of the Ancient Cathedral is one of Vercelli's most distinctive monuments - an imposing brick tower that rises majestically in the heart of the historic center. Built between the 11th and 12th centuries in Romanesque style, this bell tower represents what remains of the ancient Santa Maria Maggiore Cathedral, demolished in the 18th century to make way for the current Sant'Eusebio Cathedral. Its massive yet slender structure, standing approximately 40 meters high, is a perfect example of Piedmontese medieval architecture, featuring bifora windows and a crenellated top reminiscent of the era's fortifications. Climbing the tower (when accessible) offers a unique panoramic view over the city and surrounding rice fields - a breathtaking perspective that inextricably links Vercelli to its agricultural vocation. The bell tower is located in Piazza Sant'Eusebio, next to the Cathedral Treasure Museum, and its presence dominates the urban skyline alongside the Basilica of Sant'Andrea. The particular charm of this site lies in its being a 'monument within a monument': an archaeological remnant integrated into the urban fabric, telling centuries of history through its time-worn bricks. The visit is brief but intense, ideal for those wanting to capture the medieval essence of Vercelli without long waits.

The Ottonian Crucifix of Vercelli is one of the most precious treasures housed in the Cathedral of Sant'Eusebio. Created between the 10th and 11th centuries, this wooden crucifix represents a rare example of perfectly preserved medieval sculpture. Its uniqueness lies in the three-dimensionality of Christ, with the body carved in the round and the limbs extending toward the observer. Upon close observation, one can see the marks of time that enhance its charm: the grain of the original wood, traces of the color that once covered it, the patina of centuries. It is located in the Bishops' Crypt, a suggestive environment that enhances its sacredness. Visiting this masterpiece offers a plunge into Ottonian art, when Vercelli was an important religious and cultural center. It is not just a work of art, but a silent witness to over a thousand years of the city's history. Its placement in the crypt, accessible from the right transept of the Duomo, creates an atmosphere of recollection that invites contemplation. To appreciate it fully, approach slowly and observe the details: the anatomical rendering of the body, the expression of the face, the mastery of the carving. It is one of those places that deserve an extended stay, to absorb all its spiritual and artistic intensity.