Our visit focuses on the Romanesque Church of Saint James and the remaining medieval vestiges of the town
Gavi Ligure is not only a land of wines, very good on the other hand, but a city of ancient foundation. Already a Roman settlement, starting from the end of the 5th-6th century it became a crossroads of commerce, pilgrimages and armies. We find evidence of this role in the medieval fortifications of the 10th century. Probably an original nucleus of what will become the famous fort.
Description: Our itinerary starts from the ancient walls passing through the "Portino", up to the Parish Church, dedicated, not by chance, to Saint James. Although remodeled several times over the centuries, Saint James is one of the largest and best-preserved examples of a Romanesque church in High Monferrato. Its existence is documented starting as early as the second half of the 12th century. We will then visit the interior, noting all the still clearly visible traces of the original layout together with contemporary works of art, such as the fourteenth-century fresco of the Virgin Mary.
We’ll continue with a short walk along the village up to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Grace, with the connected convent of the Franciscan friars. The Church stands on what was originally an oratory dedicated to Saint Bernardino of Siena who preached here (15th century) initially flanked by a hostel for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago de Compostela.
For those who wish, it will be possible to buy local wines and the less famous but equally tasty almond-made biscuits “Amaretti di Gavi”.
Duration: about 2 hours
Dogs: request in advance
Contribution to the association: to be defined
Clothing: Comfortable clothing, walking shoes
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