What to see in the Province of Alessandria: 15 stops among castles, thermal baths, and history

The Paleologi Castle in Casale Monferrato is a historical gem that catapults you directly into the Middle Ages. Built in the 10th century as a defensive fortress, it became the residence of the Paleologi marquises, who ruled Monferrato for centuries. Today, visiting it, you can admire its imposing towers and crenellated walls that dominate the city's panorama. Inside, the halls are rich with frescoes and period furnishings, with special attention to the Throne Room, where official ceremonies were held. Don't miss the private chapel, with its sacred paintings that tell stories of devotion. The castle also houses the Civic Museum, with local archaeological finds and a collection of Renaissance ceramics. For a complete experience, climb the main tower: from there, the view over Casale Monferrato and the surrounding hills is breathtaking. Remember that the castle is open year-round, but check the hours on the official website to avoid surprises. It's a perfect spot for those who love history without too many frills, with clear information and details that make the visit engaging.

The Alexandria Citadel is one of the most important examples of 18th-century military architecture in Italy, a star fortress that dominates the urban landscape with its imposing pentagonal structure. Built between 1728 and 1745 by order of Victor Amadeus II of Savoy, it served as the defensive bulwark of the Kingdom of Sardinia against Austrian incursions. Today, walking along its bastions means immersing yourself in living history: the Battle of Marengo was fought here in 1800, and its walls housed illustrious prisoners during the Risorgimento wars. The main entrance, Porta Reale, leads to a complex of perfectly preserved barracks, powder magazines, and chapels. Don't miss the underground tour, where tunnels and cells unfold centuries of military strategy. The Citadel is also an active cultural hub: it hosts temporary exhibitions, events, and historical reenactments that bring its spaces to life. For a breathtaking view, climb the bastions facing the Tanaro River: from there, you can gaze over the entire city and the Monferrato hills. It's a place that combines architectural rigor and narrative charm, ideal for those seeking not just monuments, but stories to discover.

The Gavi Fortress dominates the landscape from atop a rocky hill, a military structure that tells centuries of history through its massive walls. Originally built as a castle in the 10th century and transformed into a fortress by the Genoese in the 17th century, this complex is an extraordinary example of defensive architecture. The visit begins by crossing the original, still-functioning drawbridge that leads to the main courtyard. From here, you can access the perfectly preserved rampart walkways, which offer breathtaking views of the valley below and the vineyards producing the famous Cortese di Gavi. The underground prisons, carved directly into the rock, still preserve the inscriptions left by prisoners, while the rainwater collection cisterns demonstrate the ingenuity of the builders. Particularly interesting is the countermine gallery system, designed to counter sieges, which extends over 200 meters beneath the fortress. During the visit, you can also admire the original artillery positions with cannons still aimed toward the valley. The fortress has been recently restored and now hosts temporary exhibitions on the military history of Piedmont. For those visiting in spring, the external path through the surrounding natural park offers spectacular blooms of broom and wild orchids. Access is available year-round, but I recommend checking the hours on the official website as they may vary by season.

The Paleologi Castle stands imposingly on the hill of Acqui Terme, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and surrounding valleys. Built in the 10th century as a defensive fortress, it takes its name from the Paleologi dynasty who expanded it in the 15th century. Today it houses the Archaeological Museum, where Roman and medieval artifacts found in the area are preserved, including ceramics, coins, and tools related to the ancient thermal baths. Climbing its towers allows visitors to admire the entire city, with the Bollente – the famous thermal spring – right at its feet. The castle is open year-round, with extended hours in summer, and often hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events. For those wanting a complete experience, combining the castle visit with a dip in the local thermal baths is ideal: history and wellness come together in one fell swoop.

The Roman Aqueduct of Acqui Terme is one of the most fascinating monuments in Piedmont, an engineering masterpiece that showcases the grandeur of ancient Rome. Built in the 1st century AD, it carried hot water from thermal springs to the city center, utilizing a gradient of about 10 meters. Today, you can admire the imposing remains in Piazza Levi, where the brick and stone pillars that once supported the arches stand out. The unique feature? The water flowed at a temperature of 75°C, a detail that makes this site unique compared to other Roman aqueducts. La Bollente, the iconic thermal fountain of Acqui, is the direct heir of that ancient water system. For a complete visit, join a guided tour: you'll discover how the Romans harnessed sulfurous waters for public baths, still active today. The site is freely accessible and well-signposted, perfect for a stop during a stroll through the historic center. Bring your camera: the contrasts between the red bricks and the green of the surrounding gardens create unforgettable shots. If you visit in spring, take advantage of the cherry blossoms nearby for an even more enchanting experience.

If you love history and want to experience traces of the past firsthand, the Libarna Archaeological Area is an unmissable stop. Located in Serravalle Scrivia, along the ancient Via Postumia, this area is a true treasure trove of Roman artifacts. Libarna was a Roman city of considerable importance, founded in the 2nd century BC and abandoned in the Middle Ages. Today you can walk among the well-preserved remains of the theatre, amphitheatre, and baths, imagining daily life from two thousand years ago. The theatre, with its semicircular cavea, could accommodate up to 3,800 spectators and is one of the best preserved in Northern Italy. Nearby, the amphitheatre, smaller but equally evocative, lets you relive the excitement of gladiatorial games. The baths, with their distinct areas for calidarium, tepidarium, and frigidarium, showcase the Romans' attention to wellbeing. Don't miss the polychrome mosaics and Latin inscriptions decorating some buildings: these are details that make the visit even more engaging. The area is easily accessible and well-signposted, with information panels explaining each structure. Bring a water bottle and a camera: the best times to visit are spring and autumn, when the climate is mild and the light turns the stones golden. If travelling with children, take advantage of occasional educational workshops that turn history into a game. Takeaway: check opening hours on the official website, as they may vary depending on the season.

If you love cycling, the Museum of the Champions in Novi Ligure is an unmissable stop. It's not just a museum, but a true temple dedicated to Fausto Coppi and Costante Girardengo, two legends who made the history of this sport. You'll find over 150 vintage bicycles, original jerseys, trophies, and memorabilia that tell the stories of their achievements. The exhibition path is divided into thematic sections: from the room dedicated to Coppi, with his famous Bianchi, to that of Girardengo, highlighting the successes of the 1920s. Don't miss the collection of vintage advertising posters, which show how cycling was already a mass phenomenon back then. The museum is housed in the former covered market, a historic renovated building that preserves the industrial charm of Novi Ligure. The atmosphere is engaging: it feels like reliving the great challenges of the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France. For the most curious visitors, there are interactive stations with historical footage and audio testimonies. The entrance ticket includes the audio guide, also available in English, which enriches the visit with anecdotes and technical details. If you're traveling with children, they'll appreciate the antique bicycles and the stories of the champions' courage. The museum also organizes temporary events, such as photographic exhibitions and meetings with former riders. Before you go, check the opening hours on the official website: it's usually open all year round, but may close for local holidays. A tip: allow at least an hour and a half to explore everything calmly. On your way out, stop by the bookshop to purchase a reproduction of a historic jersey or a book about Coppi's feats.

The Cremolino Castle dominates the village from atop a hill, surrounded by vineyards that produce some of the finest Dolcetto d'Acqui in the area. Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, this fortress retains its medieval charm with crenellated towers and sturdy walls that tell centuries of history. The unique feature? It is still inhabited by the owning family, who personally oversee its maintenance and visits. Inside, you can admire rooms furnished with period furniture, monumental fireplaces, and a collection of ancient weapons. The strategic location offers a breathtaking panoramic view over the Monferrato hills, with glimpses of the Alps on the clearest days. During the visit, don't miss the historic cellar where the finest bottles are stored. A little-known detail: the castle has been the setting for film shoots for historical movies. The structure is open for visits by reservation, with the possibility of tastings of local wines directly on-site. Perfect for those seeking an authentic experience, away from the more beaten tourist paths.

The Castello di Uviglie dominates the hill of Rosignano Monferrato with its imposing medieval structure dating back to the 13th century. What makes this fortress unique is the perfect blend of military architecture and winemaking vocation: the castle is indeed surrounded by 25 hectares of vineyards producing Barbera and Grignolino, with a historic cellar carved into the rock. Exploring the complex reveals three internal courtyards that narrate centuries of history, from original defensive functions to transformations into a noble residence. The 30-meter-high square tower offers a breathtaking panoramic view over the UNESCO World Heritage hills of Monferrato. Inside, the rooms preserve Renaissance frescoes and period furnishings, while the private chapel dedicated to Saint Sebastian houses valuable artworks. Today the castle is also a farm that organizes tastings of locally produced wines, allowing visitors to combine historical discovery with oenological experience. Access is possible through guided tours that illustrate both architectural aspects and wine production, with the opportunity to purchase the estate's labels. For visitors, the advice is to book in advance especially on weekends, when tastings are in high demand.

**Gabiano Castle** dominates the landscape from atop a hill, surrounded by over 100 hectares of vineyards producing premium wines such as Grignolino and Barbera. The original structure dates back to the 10th century, but its current appearance is the result of major 19th-century restorations commissioned by the Marquises Cattaneo Adorno. Inside, visitors can admire **period furnishings**, **Renaissance frescoes**, and a historic library housing over 5,000 volumes. The cellars, carved into the rock, host French oak barrels where the estate's wines age. A unique feature are the **secret passages** that connected the castle to the village below, used for defensive purposes. The surrounding park, with its Italian-style gardens, is perfect for a stroll among fountains and boxwood hedges. Throughout the year, the castle organizes **guided tastings** and cultural events, such as concerts and art exhibitions. To visit, it is advisable to book in advance, especially on weekends when attendance is higher. An experience that combines history, oenology, and breathtaking landscapes.

The San Giorgio Castle overlooks the village of San Giorgio Monferrato from a hilltop, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards. Built in the 12th century as a defensive fortress, it has preserved its original structure with crenellated towers and mighty walls. Today it is a private residence that opens to the public on special occasions, allowing visitors to admire the interiors with coffered ceilings and monumental fireplaces. Its strategic position made it a crucial control point for the Monferrato region, and its historic cellars still house centuries-old barrels. During guided tours, you'll discover anecdotes about the Marquises of Monferrato and the battles that shaped local history. The inner courtyard, with its ancient well, is perfect for taking memorable photos. For those visiting in spring, the surrounding gardens fill with wildflowers, creating a striking contrast with the manor's austere architecture. Remember to check opening hours on the official website, as visits often require advance booking.

The Cathedral of Sant'Evasio is the symbolic monument of Casale Monferrato, a Romanesque masterpiece that will leave you breathless the moment you step into the square. Built in the 11th century at the behest of Bishop Sant'Evasio, this basilica has a long and troubled history: it suffered damage during the Spanish siege of 1652 and was restored several times, but has maintained its ancient soul intact. The exterior in brick and sandstone strikes with its essentiality, with the large rose window and the splayed portal inviting you to enter. Once inside, prepare to be awestruck: the central nave is supported by alternating columns of black Varenna marble and pink Verona marble, a unique chromatic contrast that creates a hypnotic effect. The mosaic floor dates back to the 12th century and depicts biblical scenes and allegorical figures, perfectly preserved despite the centuries. Don't miss the Gothic ciborium above the main altar, a delicate marble work that seems suspended in air. The cathedral also houses the relics of Sant'Evasio in a silver urn, a destination for pilgrimages. A detail that few notice? The columns all have different capitals, each with decorations that tell sacred stories and medieval symbols. If you visit Casale, this is a must-see stop: it gives you a journey through time without needing words.

The Marengo Museum is not just a museum, but a true journey through time that takes you straight to the heart of one of the most decisive battles of the Napoleonic era. Located just a few kilometers from the center of Alessandria, this museum stands right on the battlefield of June 14, 1800, where Napoleon defeated the Austrians in a clash that consolidated his power. The setup is modern and engaging: you'll find detailed reconstructions of the formations, perfectly preserved period uniforms, and original weapons that will make you feel part of history. One section is dedicated to the famous chicken Marengo, the dish that, according to legend, was prepared for Napoleon after his victory. The tour is enriched by multimedia displays that explain the military strategies and political consequences of the battle, making the visit accessible even to those who aren't history experts. Outside, the commemorative park with monuments and plaques invites you to reflect on the events that marked this place. Admission costs just a few euros, and the museum is open year-round with flexible hours, making it ideal for a day trip. I recommend setting aside at least an hour to explore all the rooms and not missing the audio guide, included with your ticket, which shares fascinating anecdotes like that of General Desaix, the hero of the battle. If you love history or are looking for an experience different from the usual, the Marengo Museum is a must-see stop.

The Municipal Theatre of Casale Monferrato is one of the most important historic theatres in Piedmont, inaugurated in 1791 based on a design by Francesco Ottavio Magnocavalli. What immediately strikes you is its Neoclassical facade, understated yet elegant, which conceals a surprising interior. The main hall, shaped like a horseshoe, is a masterpiece of acoustics and visibility, with four tiers of boxes perfectly preserved. The decorative details in stucco and gold leaf create a refined atmosphere, while the frescoed ceiling by Giovanni Battista De Giorgi depicts musical allegories that seem to come to life during performances. Today, the theatre hosts a rich season of drama, concerts, and opera, keeping Casale's cultural tradition alive. Its unique feature? The original curtain mechanism from 1791, still functional, which is manually operated before each performance. A unique experience is attending a show seated in the front-row boxes, from which you can enjoy a perfect view of the stage. The theatre is located right in the historic centre, just a few steps from the Cathedral of Sant'Evasio, allowing you to combine a cultural visit with exploring the town.

The Church of San Domenico is one of the most captivating sites in Casale Monferrato, an extraordinary example of Gothic architecture that captures your attention from the very first glance. Built between 1472 and 1505, this church is linked to the Dominican order and stands out for its brick facade, typical of Monferrato, featuring a central rose window and a decorated portal. Upon entering, you'll be struck by the spacious single nave and the cross-vaulted ceilings, creating a solemn and intimate atmosphere. The main altar, crafted from carved and gilded wood, is a masterpiece of Baroque craftsmanship, while the side chapels house frescoes and canvases from the Piedmontese school. Don't miss the Chapel of San Vincenzo Ferrer, with its pictorial cycle dedicated to the saint, and the adjacent cloister, a peaceful corner where monks once meditated. The church also hosts concerts and cultural events, thanks to its exceptional acoustics. To visit, check the opening hours: it's usually accessible in the morning or by appointment for groups. A practical tip: combine your visit with the nearby Duomo of Sant'Evasio for a comprehensive itinerary on Casalese sacred art.