サントステファノベルボのおすすめツーリングルート

Castelnuovo Calcea, located in the heart of the Monferrato Astigiano, has ancient origins linked to the Ligurian Statielli, Celts, and Gauls, before Roman colonization (Castrum Novum ad Calcea). The medieval village, known for its castle, destroyed several times starting in 1155, was a fiefdom of the Marquises of Incisa, the Trotti family, and finally the Savoy family in 1735.

Santo Stefano Belbo was immortalized by the writing of Cesare Pavese, an intellectual who, through his works, particularly The Moon and the Bonfires, narrated the history and traditions of a town, immortalizing its people and making its places legendary. A poet, translator, editor, and writer, he is considered one of the greatest and most important Italian intellectuals of the 20th century.

View of the beautiful village of Castiglione Tinella.

small pretty church

great region for cycling

Bronze sculpture of excellent workmanship.

On a promontory next to the road, in a beautiful panoramic location, is a picnic area with numerous stone tables and benches. At the top of the area is a bronze statue of a woman from the Langhe, immortalized in her domestic activities (specifically, kneading bread), a work by sculptor Marco Gallo (sic) and inaugurated in 1989. At the entrance to the area is a drinking fountain. It's a nice spot for a break and perhaps a picnic—just keep in mind that fires are not permitted, so no grilling.

The town is very small, but packed with points of interest. The starting point is the castle, which occupies the summit; a beautiful masonry structure, it now houses the Regional Wine Shop. Opposite the castle is the Town Hall, and next to it is a rest area with benches, a fountain, and a lovely view of the Langhe. On the opposite side is the Church of Saints James and Christopher, a beautiful building of medieval origin, but completely rebuilt in the 17th century, with its façade subsequently remodeled in neoclassical style. Continuing downhill, you reach one of the town's ancient gates, which leads onto the provincial road. Slightly further away (and requiring some effort to find), the Church of the Holy Trinity, also from the 17th century, has a very simple façade (and a beautiful door on the side), and is unfortunately somewhat neglected. The entire tour takes little time, but is worth the detour. Near the town gate, a restaurant also offers a chance to combine gastronomy and culture.