マンゴーの洞窟・トップ13

The town sits on a small rock, nestled on the right bank of the Belbo River, 555 meters above sea level. It is one of the most important hazelnut-producing centers.

Small town with a wonderful hazelnut cream factory in the upper part of the town! Be sure to stop by the “cuor di nocciola delle langhe” and try the great products. What Ferrero started here in the town is lovingly continued organically and with a maximum of three ingredients.

In addition to the Castle clearly visible from afar, the town center is interesting with a beautiful view of Alba and Tanaro with the Langhe in the background.

The climb that leads from Canelli to Gancia castle passes through splendid vines. This climb is steep at times and was tackled by the 2023 Giro d'Italia women. The Gancia castle is currently a private villa and cannot be visited: on the other hand, the panoramic views are magnificent.

The castle, configured in a single and imposing square volume, reveals evident architectural stylistic differences, originating from the layout choices undertaken in the 17th century by the legitimate owners. Starting from 1625, the Asinari nobles shared the rank of "counts of Costigliole" with the noble Verasis family. This complex was therefore divided between two feudal lords, who, with autonomous determination, gave rise to transformations and embellishments on subjective bases. The northern part of the manor, pertaining to the Asinari, retains the appearance derived from the interventions of the second half of the eighteenth century, duly inspired by the architectural canons propagated by Benedetto Alfieri. At the same time, the external aspect of the southern part, pertaining to the Verasis, constitutes an interesting example of neo-medieval stylistic re-proposition, dating back to the first decades of the 19th century.

The castle of Costigliole d'Asti, built in medieval times and subject to restoration over the centuries, is an important stage in the "Castelli Aperti" circuit of Lower Piedmont. In 1041, Arrigo III officially conferred possession on the Church of Asti. Subsequently, the castle passed under the authority of Bonifacio del Vasto. In 1198, it was Asti that took possession of the castle, establishing statutory regulations. Built on top of the Costigliole fortress, this mighty quadrangular castle, with a base of 60 meters on each side and a height of 25 meters, is one of the grandest in the Asti area.

One of my favorite places is part of the so-called "Cordigliera Alfieri" and is included in the list of the most beautiful villages in Italy.

It is via Mazzini in the stretch of road shortly after the cemetery. The castle is an imposing structure, recently restored and visible from far away (like that of Govone).