What to see in Novara: 15 stops among castles, lakes, and an interactive map

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta dominates Piazza della Repubblica with its imposing Neoclassical façade, designed by Alessandro Antonelli in 1854. Upon entering, visitors are struck by the grandeur of the interior: the central nave, 22 meters high, is punctuated by Corinthian columns that guide the eye toward the apse, where the fresco of the Assumption of Mary by Gaudenzio Ferrari stands out. A detail not to be missed is the Romanesque crypt, dating back to the 11th century, which houses the relics of San Gaudenzio, the city's patron saint. Here, the capitals carved with animal and plant figures tell the medieval history of Piedmont. The dome, added later, provides a raking light that enhances the polychrome marbles of the floor. For those visiting Novara, the cathedral is a landmark not only for its religious significance but also for its artistic value: the 18th-century organ, recently restored, is used during sacred concerts. Its central location allows visitors to combine the tour with the nearby Paleochristian Baptistery, one of the oldest in Northern Italy. I recommend climbing the bell tower for a panoramic view over the city's rooftops and the Prealps.

The Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo in Arona is not just a simple statue: it's a monumental work that has towered over the city since 1697 with its 35-meter height, becoming one of the most recognizable symbols of Lake Maggiore. Known locally as 'Il Sancarlone', this giant made of copper and iron was created to celebrate Cardinal Carlo Borromeo, a native of Arona and a central figure of the Catholic Counter-Reformation. The little-known peculiarity? The statue is hollow inside and visitable: through a spiral staircase of 165 steps, you reach the saint's head, where you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the lake and the Prealps. The load-bearing structure made of stone blocks and bricks supports the metal framework covered with hammered copper sheets, a cutting-edge construction technique for its time. The strategic position on a hill overlooking the lake makes the colossus visible from kilometers away, serving as a landmark for navigators. Today, the site also includes the Church of San Carlo at the foot of the statue, completing the monumental complex dedicated to the saint. Access to the colossus is possible from March to October, with tickets available at the Arona tourist office. For those visiting the province of Novara, this monument represents a unique experience that inextricably combines art, history, and landscape.

The Visconti-Sforza Castle of Novara dominates the historic center with its imposing red brick structure, a witness to centuries of history. Built in 1358 by order of Galeazzo II Visconti, the castle has undergone numerous transformations, passing from the Sforzas to the French and later becoming a military barracks. Today, after careful restoration, it hosts cultural events and temporary exhibitions. The inner courtyard is an evocative space where you can breathe the atmosphere of the past, while the corner towers offer unique views of the city. Nearby, the Basilica of San Gaudenzio with its Antonellian bell tower completes the panorama. The castle is not permanently open for interior visits, but during exhibitions you can access rooms that preserve traces of original frescoes. Its central location makes it easily reachable on foot from the Broletto and the Cathedral, creating an ideal itinerary for discovering Novara. For those visiting in spring or autumn, the surrounding gardens offer moments of relaxation away from the crowds.

The Basilica of San Gaudenzio dominates Novara's skyline with its imposing dome, designed by Alessandro Antonelli and standing at an impressive 121 meters tall. It is the undisputed symbol of the city and a masterpiece of Piedmontese neoclassical architecture. Construction of the basilica began in 1577 based on Pellegrino Tibaldi's design, but it was Antonelli who revolutionized the building in the 19th century with the addition of the dome, completed in 1888. Inside, visitors are struck by the single nave and side chapels, where artworks such as Gaudenzio Ferrari's polyptych in the Chapel of San Giovanni stand out. The crypt preserves the relics of San Gaudenzio, Novara's patron saint, in a 17th-century silver urn. Climbing the dome is a unique experience: you ascend a spiral staircase of 167 steps to reach the balcony, which offers a 360-degree view over Novara and the surrounding hills, with the Alps visible in the background on clear days. The basilica is open year-round, with varying hours on weekdays and holidays; admission is free, while a small fee is required to climb the dome. It remains an active place of worship, so it's advisable to check mass times to avoid visiting during services. The square in front, with the Broletto and the Romanesque bell tower, completes the visit, offering a glimpse into Novara's history from the Middle Ages to the unification of Italy.

The Pombia Safari Park is a unique wildlife park in Piedmont that allows you to experience something similar to an African safari without leaving Italy. The driving route winds through vast spaces where you can observe animals like lions, tigers, giraffes, and rhinoceroses up close, all in environments that replicate their natural habitats. In addition to the safari area, the park includes a pedestrian zone with enclosures for smaller species, a reptile house with snakes and lizards, and educational shows featuring birds of prey and mammals. Particularly popular are the interactive activities, such as monkey feeding time or play sessions with lemurs, which especially engage children. The park is equipped with refreshment points, picnic areas, and a scenic train to comfortably explore every corner. The careful management of animal welfare and conservation programs make the visit not only fun but also educational. Ideal for a family outing, the Safari Park combines adventure and education in a safe and organized setting.

The La Torbiera Wildlife Park in Conturbia is a concrete example of how the Novara province protects biodiversity. This park stands out for its commitment to conserving endangered species, such as the Italian wolf and the European lynx. It's not just a zoo: here, animals live in spacious enclosures that recreate their natural habitats, from wetlands to forests. Walking along the trails, you'll encounter deer, fallow deer, and wild boars in semi-freedom, while red foxes hide among the vegetation. The park also hosts a rehabilitation center for injured wild animals, which are treated and then released back into the wild. For families, there are equipped picnic areas and educational trails that explain the local ecosystem. The visit is an opportunity to see animals like the Eurasian eagle-owl or the roe deer up close, often hard to spot in the wild. The park organizes seasonal events, such as raptor days, where experts showcase the flight of eagles and falcons. The atmosphere is peaceful, away from the hustle and bustle, ideal for a rejuvenating outing. Remember to bring binoculars and a camera: sightings are frequent, especially at dawn or dusk. The entrance ticket includes access to all areas, and children under 3 enter for free. Always check the website for opening hours and special initiatives.

The Borromean Fortress of Arona dominates the lakeside panorama from atop a rocky spur, offering one of the most spectacular views of Lake Maggiore. This medieval fortress, built between the 10th and 15th centuries, served for centuries as an important military outpost for the Borromeo family. Today it stands as a fascinating complex of ruins that tells centuries of history through its massive walls and remaining tower structures. The climb to the fortress, along a woodland path, reveals increasingly expansive glimpses of the lake and the Borromean Islands. Once you reach the summit, your gaze sweeps from Arona to Stresa and Angera, with the Swiss Alps in the background. The visiting route allows you to explore the remains of the fortifications, including the main tower and defensive bastions. Particularly interesting is the rainwater collection cistern, a testament to medieval engineering. The fortress is historically connected to the nearby Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo, a native of Arona, and represents a significant example of Piedmontese military architecture. Access is free and the site is always open, ideal for a visit at any time of day. Especially recommended at sunset, when the warm light enhances the ancient stones and creates unforgettable atmospheres.

The Abbey of Saints Nazarius and Celsus in San Nazzaro Sesia is a place that strikes you with its authentic Romanesque character. Founded in 1040 by Benedictine monks, it stands isolated in the plains, surrounded by cultivated fields. The church preserves the original semicircular apse and a slender bell tower that dominates the landscape. Inside, the 14th-century frescoes in the Chapel of St. Michael stand out, depicting scenes from the life of Christ and local saints. The cloister, though partially reconstructed, retains stone columns and decorated capitals that tell centuries of prayer and work. Here, the monks produced wine and cheeses, traditions that still characterize the area today. The abbey is open to visitors free of charge and often hosts sacred music concerts, taking advantage of the natural acoustics of the nave. For those seeking an experience off the beaten tourist path, this is a concrete example of how Piedmont safeguards little-known treasures of great historical value.

**Buccione Castle** stands on a hill at 400 meters above sea level in Orta San Giulio, and is one of the historic symbols of Lake Orta. Built in the 12th century as a watchtower, it was part of a defensive system that controlled access to the lake. Today, the **main tower** remains, 23 meters high, accessible by climbing an internal stone staircase. From the top, the view spans over Isola San Giulio, the Alps, and the surrounding villages: a panorama that alone justifies the climb. The structure, made of local stone, is well preserved despite the centuries and the absence of modern interventions. Access is free and always open, but the walk requires about 15-20 minutes from Orta San Giulio, on a marked and partly steep path. It's an ideal experience for those seeking an authentic corner, away from the crowds, and who appreciate the medieval history of Piedmont. Bring comfortable shoes and a camera: the photos from the tower are unforgettable. There are no services on site, so plan accordingly with water and snacks. In spring and autumn, the sunset light creates magical atmospheres.

The Community Palace of Orta San Giulio is a historic building that directly overlooks the main square of the village, just steps from the waters of Lake Orta. Built in the 16th century, it has hosted local community meetings for centuries, becoming a symbol of the territory's administrative autonomy. The stone facade, sober yet elegant, features architraved windows and an entrance portal reminiscent of Piedmontese Renaissance style. Inside, frescoes and heraldic coats of arms of the families who governed the area, including the Visconti and Borromeo, are still preserved. Today, the palace hosts cultural events and temporary exhibitions but retains its atmosphere as a place of representation. Its central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the historic center of Orta, with its cobblestone alleys and artisan workshops. Observing architectural details, such as the frames made of local serizzo stone, reveals the connection with the quarries of Lake Orta, a concrete example of how the territory influenced historic construction. It is not a conventional museum but a living place where history blends with everyday life: here, tourists can attend summer concerts or simply admire the view of the lake from the square in front. For those visiting Orta San Giulio, the Community Palace offers an authentic testimony of past civic life, without the need for entrance tickets or rigid schedules.

The Castello Ricetto di Ghemme is a perfectly preserved medieval gem, one of the few remaining intact ricetti in Piedmont. Built between the 13th and 14th centuries, this fortified complex served as a refuge for the population and a storage facility for food supplies during invasions. Today, walking among its river pebble walls and cobblestone alleys means immersing yourself in an authentic atmosphere, far from mass tourism. The square towers and tower-houses overlooking the inner courtyard testify to the defensive architecture of the era, while the solid wood doors still seem ready to close to protect the inhabitants. A unique feature is the historic cellar located within the ricetto, where you can taste the renowned Ghemme DOCG, a red wine that has made this area famous. The castle is not just a monument, but a living place: throughout the year it hosts food and wine events and temporary exhibitions, allowing you to also discover local traditions. The visit is free and self-guided, with information panels explaining the history of every corner. For photography enthusiasts, the shady alleys and architectural perspectives offer picturesque views in every season, especially at sunset when the warm light enhances the colors of the stones.

The Massino Visconti Castle is an architectural gem that rises on the town's hill, offering an extraordinary panoramic view over Lake Maggiore and the Prealps. Built in the 12th century as a defensive fortress for the Visconti family, it has maintained its original structure with crenellated towers and powerful walls. Today it is a private residence, but the exterior is accessible and allows visitors to admire architectural details like the stone portal and bifora windows. The castle's strategic position, perched on a hilltop, makes it a privileged observation point over the surrounding territory. Walking around the walls, one notices the marks of time and the restorations that have preserved the building's integrity. The village of Massino Visconti, with its cobblestone streets, completes the medieval atmosphere. For those visiting the Novara province, this castle is a concrete example of how local history intertwines with the landscape, without the need for large museums or exhibitions. Just looking at the stones helps understand the past of dominations and battles that have characterized Piedmont.

The Sforza Castle of Galliate stands as one of the most significant testimonies to Sforza rule in Piedmont. Built in the second half of the fifteenth century at the behest of Galeazzo Maria Sforza, this imposing structure is distinguished by its quadrangular layout with corner towers, typical of Lombard Renaissance military architecture. Today the castle houses the civic library and exhibition spaces, while preserving the charm of its origins intact. The frescoed halls on the first floor, accessible during guided tours, retain traces of sixteenth-century decorations that are absolutely worth admiring. The inner courtyard, with its portico and central well, offers an intimate and evocative atmosphere. Particularly interesting is the Chapel of Saint Joseph, located in the north wing, which houses frescoes from the sixteenth century. The castle fits perfectly into the urban context of Galliate, dominating the historic center with its massive presence. Its location, just a few kilometers from Novara, makes it an ideal stop for those wishing to discover the historical and artistic heritage of the Novara area without straying too far from the city. Visits are possible year-round, with hours varying according to the season and scheduled events.

The Coccia Theatre is one of Novara's cultural landmarks, a building that tells over a century of history through its architecture and performances. Inaugurated in 1888, the theatre is named after the Novarese composer Carlo Coccia and stands in the city centre, just steps away from the Basilica of San Gaudenzio. The façade, in neoclassical style, features a portico with columns and allegorical statues, while the interior impresses with its horseshoe-shaped hall, four tiers of boxes, and a ceiling frescoed by Giovanni Vimercati. Here, Piedmont's operatic and theatrical traditions blend with contemporary offerings: from drama seasons to symphonic concerts, ballets, and family events. A detail few notice? The foyer, an elegant space with mirrors and stucco, perfect for a pre-show aperitif. For visitors to Novara, the Coccia is not just a place of entertainment: it's an experience that combines art, history, and sociability, with affordable tickets and a rich year-round calendar. I recommend checking the online schedule to avoid missing the most interesting events, such as showcases dedicated to local young talents.

The Palazzo and Arengo del Broletto represents the oldest nucleus of civil power in Novara, an architectural complex that encapsulates centuries of administrative history. Located in Piazza della Repubblica, right opposite the Cathedral, this medieval building combines four distinct structures built between the 12th and 15th centuries. The name 'Broletto' derives from the Latin 'brolo', meaning an enclosed garden, and this is where the city council met since the Middle Ages. The Arengo, the oldest part, dates back to 1198 and was where the podestà administered justice and public assemblies were held. Its brick facade still features the original Gothic bifora windows and the city coat of arms. The Palazzo del Comune, added in the 15th century, shows Renaissance influences with its round-arched portico. Today, the interior spaces host temporary exhibitions and cultural events, while the central courtyard preserves the atmosphere of times past with its historic well. Particularly interesting is the Sala dell'Arengo, where recently restored 14th-century frescoes can be admired. The complex is freely accessible during municipal office opening hours, offering an authentic glimpse into the political and social life of medieval Novara without the need for tickets or reservations.