An amazing area, rich in treasures... to taste too
Of Roman origins (probably an ancient villa), Albugnano sees its fate linked to the Vezzolano Abbey. For centuries now there has been nothing but a toponym of the town of Vezzolano, but the abbey has been and remains the real star. The imposing structure dominates the area, but not alone. Almost subdued and reserved, we also find the small Romanesque-Gothic church of San Pietro de Fenestrella.
Description: our visit turns more to the abbey of S. Maria, but, preparing for the visit of the "mistress" of Albugnano and getting into the Romanesque spirit, we will make a short visit to the cemetery church of San Pietro. In 1235, the small church was entrusted by the bishop of Vercelli to the parish priest of the Abbey of Vezzolano. It is located inside the cemetery surrounded by the Astigian countryside. It has a long history of abandonments and recoveries that we will retrace by observing the composite architectural features, but the Romanesque-Gothic imprint is clear.
The Abbey of Vezzolano is, unlike St. Peter's, an imposing work with many hidden wonders. Just to name one, the internal "jubé" which is a very rare example of medieval polychrome sculpture probably commissioned by Federico Barbarossa. Another element of charm is the cloister with frescoes by the Master of Montiglio (see the famous chapel dedicated to S. Andrew of the Montiglio castle). But let's not reveal further.
In 1996, a committee for the protection of the landscape was set up in the territory of the Abbey which, basing on nineteenth-century documents, planted an orchard. The apple tree is the main crop due to its characteristics of resistance and adaptability to the Piedmontese climate. We suggest a visit, if interested, to know more about the different varieties of apple trees. Possibly at flowering time (April-May) or before harvest (September-October).
However, Albugnano still has other strings to its bow, especially for wine lovers. It is the land of Nebbiolo di Albugnano, a D.O.C. with countless nuances, aged from 18 months to three years. To try.
Duration: about 3 hours. It depends on what you want to visit besides churches.
Dogs: not allowed, anyway ask info
Contribution to the association: to be defined
Call: ++39-351-7660812
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