What is grown in Piedmont. Local cuisine and wines. Short video about Piedmont

Piedmont - administrative region in the northwest of Italy and the second largest region of the country. The region is located between the Ligurian Apennines and the Alps. It is in Piedmont that the source of the longest river in Italy, the Po, is located. In addition, one of the highest European mountains, Gran Paradiso, is located in the region. The region borders France to the west and Switzerland to the north. The southern "neighbor" of Piedmont is Liguria, the eastern one is Lombardy.

administrative center of the Piedmont region is the city of Turin - an important business and Cultural Center Italy.

Story

The name of the region, translated from Italian, sounds like "the foot of the mountain." The first mention of the region is found in documents dating back to the 13th century. After Rome fell, Piedmont was besieged by barbarians for a long time. Subsequently, these lands for a long time were part of the Kingdom of Lombardy, then - the state of the Carolingians. In the XI century, the Savoy dynasty became the leading among the feudal lords, and Turin was chosen as the capital of the Savoy kingdom. The end of the 19th century was the heyday of industry, agriculture and construction. Interestingly, in 1899, the famous Italian auto concern, FIAT, was founded in the capital of Piedmont.

Climate

The climate of Piedmont is moderately warm, with rather cold winters and hot, dry summers. The spring period is characterized by frequent precipitation. Autumn in Piedmont is quite hot and foggy. Fog combined with cloudiness in autumn contributes to high humidity.

How to get there?

Piedmont is easily accessible by plane. In the vicinity of Turin there is an international airport Kassel, which receives flights from Russia. Not far away is the slightly smaller Cuneo Levaldigi Airport.

It is also possible to first fly to one of the airports in Milan, and only then transfer to the train to Turin or any other city in Piedmont. By the way, due to its geographical position, the region has a railway connection with France. Turin is easily accessible by train from Lyon.

What to see?

The sights of Piedmont are striking in their diversity, because there is everything from majestic abbeys to ancient castles.

• In Turin, you should definitely see the Egyptian Museum, which houses the Pharaonic Papyrus and the Golden Mask, as well as the famous Shroud of Turin.
• In Ivrea you can enjoy a guided tour of the majestic Duomo Cathedral.
• In the small town of Vezzolano, which is located near the city of Asti, there is an ancient abbey, which, they say, was built by Charlemagne himself.
• You should also definitely look into the most picturesque Lake Maggiore, where you can have a great rest, especially in summer.

Ski resorts in Piedmont

The most popular region in the region is the Val di Susa region. It combines several resort towns at once: Sestriere, Cesana, Sauze d'Oulx, Sansicario and Claviere.

What to try in Piedmont?

Piedmontese cuisine is very unusual and varied:

• The most characteristic dishes of the region are fondue and banya caoda, which are served with truffles and raw vegetables.
• We also recommend ordering a traditional dish Piedmont gran fritto miso. This is fried meat with vegetables, cooked according to a special recipe, the history of which goes back to ancient times.
• If we talk about sweets, then each city of Piedmont has its own "crown" desserts: in Turin - giaduiotti sweets, in Cuneo - glazed chestnuts, in Chivasso - nocciolini, in Andrat and Lanzo - canestrelli.

What to bring from Piedmont?

If you want to bring souvenirs from Piedmont for family and friends, it will be very easy to do. Classic souvenirs, such as mugs, magnets, postcards, T-shirts, are sold here literally on every corner. If you want to buy something characteristic, peculiar only to Piedmont, you can buy the famous Piedmontese chocolate or a bottle of good wine. The best wines here are Barolo, Barbaresco, Gattinara, Gemme, Nebbiolo, champagne from Asti (spumante d'Asti).

Piedmont(literally "At the foot of the mountains"), whose name comes from the geographical location of the region, is one of the most major regions Italy: its area is more than 25,000 sq. km, and about 4.5 million people live here.
This region stretches almost the entire northwestern part of Italy from the foothills of the Alps, separating it from France and Switzerland, to the Apennines in the south, acting as a natural border with Liguria, and on Lake Maggiore and the Ticino River, Piedmont borders on Lombardy.
The airports of Milano Malpensa, Turin Caselle and Genoa (one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean) make communication with the region easily accessible.

This area, despite its glorious history and fame, tourists fell in love relatively recently. But we can assume for sure - the feeling will be eternal. Because this happened not only thanks to Turin, which was glorified XX. It's just that the word "most" has a special relation to Piedmont: here are some of the highest mountains in Europe. Gran Paradiso(4061 m) and (4637 m), the second alpine peak after Mont Blanc. Beautifies the Piedmont region and beautiful mountainMonviso. It also starts here river Po, the longest river in Italy (652 km).

Nature has turned Piedmont into a piece of paradise, beautiful at any time of the year. 150 hectares of land are carefully protected by the state. These are 56 regional parks and reserves, the world-famous Gran Paradiso and Val Grande parks, where you can make exciting excursions to the glaciers.

central part The region is formed by the valley of the river Po (in its upper reaches) and the massifs of hills -, Po and Monferrato. The beautiful panorama is complemented by many fortresses and castles crowning the tops of hills along the banks of rivers and lakes, towering among the forests and over the crossroads of ancient roads.

Piedmont is the westernmost region of Italy with beautiful and developed infrastructure entertainment. The ski resorts of Piedmont are most often compared with the French Alps, they are similar in natural and climatic conditions. The first skiers descended from the slopes of Bardonecchia at the beginning of the 19th century. Piedmont offers 1,300 km of ski runs, 53 ski bases, 300 slopes, snow parks and helf pipes for snowboarders, ice cascades, heliskis, ski runs and night snowshoeing.

Piedmont is also rich, for which the most favorable conditions have been created.

History of Piedmont

The name "Piedmont" was first mentioned in the 13th century. Until the 15th century, the territory of Piedmont was fragmented into many fiefs. In the 15th century, Piedmont entered Duchy of Savoy(The inseparability of Piedmont from Savoy was established). In 1720 became the main part Sardinian kingdom with its capital in Turin. In 1802–14 it was part of France. From 1820-40s one of the most economically developed regions of Italy. The bourgeoisie and the bourgeois nobility of Piedmont played a significant role in the Italian national liberation movement of the 19th century, being the leading force in the bourgeois Piedmontese revolution of 1821, actively participating in the Revolution of 1848-1849 in Italy.

The unification of Italy took place in 1859–60 around the Kingdom of Sardinia (actually around Piedmont). During the Second World War, Piedmont was occupied by Nazi troops in September 1943; it became one of the most important centers of the Resistance Movement. He was liberated mainly by the Resistance in April 1945. The high degree of concentration of industry and the working class (primarily in Turin) determined the position of Piedmont as one of the main centers of the labor and democratic movement in Italy.

Piedmont region located in the northwest of Italy, surrounded by Alpine mountains(from the north and west - the Alps, from the south - the Apennine Alps), on the border with France and Switzerland, as well as with some Italian regions(Lombardy, Liguria and Vale D "Aosta). Here are some of the highest mountains in Europe - Gran Paradiso (4061 m) and Monte Rosa (4637 m), and the longest river in Italy - Po (652 km) originates here. high alps guard the peace of the fog-shrouded plains, the tiny provincial towns, knight's castles and hilly pastures, vineyards of Lage and Monferrato and rice fields. Nearby are the incredibly picturesque alpine lakes of Orta and Maggiore.

And in the very heart Piedmont lies Turin with the refined atmosphere of its cobbled streets and baroque palazzos, shady arcades and elegant sidewalk cafes. Turin is a huge number of various museums. And, of course, the main treasure of the city is the Shroud of Turin.

In the territory Piedmont 56 different national parks, including the famous Grand Paradiso Park. The snow-covered alpine slopes are very good for skiing (for example, the resort of Sestriere), and ski lodges are open here both in winter and in summer. Leisure in Piedmont it is also river rafting, hiking, horse riding and cycling routes, water sports sports on the lakes (rowing, surfing, etc.)

There are thermal springs here - in the province of Verbano Cusio Ossola in the north and in the provinces of Alessandria and Asti in the south.

Wine, gastronomy and truffle hunting

The nature of the region is rich in pastures, and meat dishes, especially game, are the main components of the menu, while the sauces for these dishes are based on the famous white truffles The Albs, for which Piedmont has an ideal climate: cold winters and frequent autumn fogs. Every year, during the weekend, from October 1 to November 7, a truffle auction is held in Alba. Nowhere, except in central France, will you enjoy the exquisite aroma of truffles more than in the restaurants of Piedmont, Umbria and, more rarely, Tuscany and Marche.

In Piedmont, they make wonderful cheeses with mold Gorgonzola and Castelmagno (they belong to ancient Italian cheeses), the famous Novarre biscuits and ... a lot of chocolate-based confectionery (the company of the same name founded by the Ferrero brothers is a leading European manufacturer of confectionery). The thin, crispy grissini bread sticks that are now common throughout Italy were also invented in Piedmont.

Perhaps that is why it is in this area of ​​​​Italy that the most famous Italian company for the production of kitchen accessories - Alessa - is located.

Piedmont is home to world famous Italian vermouths Martini Cinzano, Asti sparkling wines, rich dry red wine Barolo and lighter wine Barbaresco. Piedmont is proud of its collections of famous vintage wines and numerous wine cellars where the most captious connoisseur can taste and purchase the best wines. "Wine roads" in Piedmont are called many places and routes that allow you to get acquainted with the most famous local centers of winemaking.

The pearl cities of Piedmont

Asti and Alba- provinces with rich history and culture. There are many architectural monuments 12th - 15th centuries, including the ancient Pellegrin Road and medieval castles and fortresses. Asti is known for its traditional Palio and famous sparkling wines; Alba - the annual truffle auction.

Alessandria- today it's a big one industrial centre, as well as a traditional center for the production of felt hats and jewelry. It is the birthplace of Italy's most popular contemporary writer, Umberto Eco.

Sconce- the birthplace of the famous Italian cheese of the same name.

Monferrato- here are the main wineries of Piedmont.

Novara and Vercelli- These cities are famous for their Gorgonzola cheese and rice fields.

Holidays and traditions of Piedmont

In every province of Piedmont, festivals are held with the preservation of ancient folk traditions. The most famous of them - Palio in Asti, whose history dates back to 1275, when thousands of residents gathered in the main square to pay homage to the patron saint of the city of Asti - San Secondo. In our time, a magnificent celebration in colorful medieval costumes with a procession through the main streets of Asti is held every third Sunday in September: 21 riders from different districts the provinces of Asti enter into an equal duel for the main prize of the competition - the Palio flag, the drawing of which every year becomes the embodiment of the imagination of one of the local artists. On the festive day, fairs are open where you can buy traditional souvenirs and taste traditional Italian snacks.

Ideas individual tours across Piedmont

• Culture of Piedmont + holidays in Liguria
• Small towns of Piedmont
• wine roads and Culinary Features of Piedmont
• Wines from the province of Asti
• Lunch or Dinner at the Countess's
• Underground Turin
• Abbey of Sacra San Michele
• Truffle hunting in Piedmont
• Alpine fortresses
• In the footsteps of the Holy Inquisition
• Chocolate factory in Piedmont

Piedmont- a region located in the northwestern part between the Ligurian Apennines and the Alps. This area occupies a significant territory by the standards of the country - 25.4 thousand square kilometers. and is the second largest after the island. More than 4 million people live in Piedmont (density is 169 people per sq. km). The capital of the region is the city - one of the centers of international tourism, and a little more than 850 thousand people live here, taking into account the suburbs - 1 million 600 thousand people. The remaining cities are less populated: (Cuneo 52 thousand people), Novara (Novara 102 thousand people), (Asti 70 thousand people), Alessandria (82 thousand people) and others. Geographically, Piedmont is divided into 8 provinces. The region got its name due to its unique geographical location. Located at the very foot of the mountains (Ai piedi dei monti), the area got its name - Piedmont (Piemonte).

Geography

Piedmont is surrounded on 3 sides by the ridges of the Alps, the most famous peaks of which are Mount Monviso, where the Po River has its source, and Monte Rosa. Piedmont borders France to the west and Switzerland to the north. Italian regions Lombardy, Liguria and Val d'Aosta. Almost half of the region's territory is mountain ranges, where the best Italian resorts are located. Every year tourists from different countries the world, including from Russia and the CIS countries. About 8% of the territory of the region is occupied by natural parks: There are 56 in Piedmont, including the Gran Paradiso National Park.

The splendor of the nature of Piedmont. Thinkstock Photos

Climate and weather

Piedmont has a generally temperate climate with a south-continental character, which becomes progressively colder at high altitude as it approaches the Alps. In areas located on low altitudes, winters are cold and wet (thick fog often occurs), but there is little precipitation. Summers are quite hot and muggy, with thunderstorms, especially in areas north of the Po, while areas south of the Po have very little rainfall in summer. Heavy rains occur mainly in spring and autumn in most of the territory, in summer precipitation is not uncommon in the Alps.

On the shores of Lake Maggiore, a special microclimate prevails with cold winters, but milder than in the rest of the region.

Story

The first settlements on the territory of modern Piedmont date back to the Neolithic era. Formation social order began in the 2nd century BC during the arrival of the Romans, who founded cities here, built roads, began to develop agriculture and different kinds folk crafts. The Roman Empire was interested in the lands of modern Piedmont due to their immediate proximity to Gaul. The fall led to the fact that the region was constantly subjected to barbarian raids, and the rulers relentlessly replaced one another. Since the middle of the 15th century, the Savoy dynasty has dominated here. Already in 1720, Piedmont entered the Kingdom of Sardinia. At the beginning of the 19th century, the region was part of France, but in 1814 these lands again became Italian. The unification of the country took place at the turn of 1859-1860, and, in fact, all the regions were reunited around Piedmont.

In the autumn of 1943, at a time when the devastating World War II was going on in Europe, the Resistance Movement was developing in Piedmont. The region was liberated by Italian partisans in the spring of 1945.

Snowy Piedmont. Thinkstock Photos

culture

Piedmont is a land rich natural resources and landscapes of breathtaking beauty, keeps on its territory an invaluable artistic and cultural heritage relating to various historical periods. In the cities and borgos of Piedmont, you can enjoy the splendor of baroque palaces, the luxury of royal residences, the silent austerity of churches and the secrecy of castles. And having enjoyed the beautiful architecture enough, you can go to one of the resort towns of Piedmont, such as Vinadio, Acqui Terme, Terme Agliano, etc., and "purify your soul" in places of pilgrimage (among which the Oropa Sanctuary is the most famous).

Beautiful Piedmont. Thinkstock Photos

Transport and infrastructure

A well-developed network of roads and tunnels allows you to quickly and conveniently get to Piedmont from different regions countries. The most important roads are considered to be: - Piacenza, Turin -, Turin - Ivream -.

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Economy

The development of Italian industry did not bypass Piedmont. Today, factories of the largest auto concern FIAT (Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino) operate here, as well as enterprises producing electrical, electrometallurgical and railway equipment; the pharmaceutical, printing, chemical, radio-electronic, food and light industries are developing. In the 50s - 70s of the last century, many southerners moved to Piedmont due to the fact that the auto industry developed here, and the standard of living was higher than in other areas of the country.

FIAT. Thinkstock Photos

Today, FIAT factories produce cars under several brands: FIAT, Ferrari, Maserati, Alfa-Romeo, Abarth, Iveco, Lancia. It is important to note that in this region they produce not only cars, but also trucks, as well as passenger vehicles, which are sold not only in Italy, but also exported to various countries in Europe, Asia, America, Australia and the CIS countries.

But Piedmont is famous not only for the automotive industry. Factories and factories of the most famous chocolate confectionery company, Ferrero, work here. It was in Piedmont that the favorite delicacy of all the kids of the world, the Kinder Surprise chocolate egg, was first born. If for breakfast you prefer sandwiches with Nutella chocolate and hazelnut spread, then you will probably be interested to know that it was also invented at the foot of the Alps. In addition, Ferrero has become famous for the fact that thanks to its technologies, many people can enjoy Raffaello sweets, Tic-Tac dragees, and Ferrero Rocher “golden balls” to the extent possible.

The most famous nut butter in the world. Photo aleteia.org

However, it is not only thanks to Ferrero that the "chocolate" Piedmont became famous. Until the middle of the 17th century, a hot drink made from cocoa beans was popular in Europe, but the Italians went further. Thanks to the imagination of confectioners and happy accident Solid chocolate was born in Turin. Now many believe that this delicacy first appeared in Switzerland, but in fact, Turin is the birthplace of sweet tiles with an original taste.

Italian coffee lovers probably know such a popular brand as. The factory for the production of this divine drink opened in the capital of Piedmont - Turin in 1895. The product range of this company will appeal to every gourmet. Lavazza pleases with a blended drink, there is also coffee in pods, in beans, of varying degrees of grinding and with different contents of oils, tonic and aromatic substances.

Pietraporzio, Prov. Cuneo. Piedmont. Thinkstock Photos

Piedmont is also famous for the fact that they are harvested here, the cost of which is estimated in thousands of euros. Delicacies are prepared from these mushrooms, available only to wealthy people. Some owners of land in northwestern Italy periodically arrange the so-called, and every tourist can take part in it, you just need to pay the amount set by the owner.

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Piedmont inherited excellently equipped ski slopes from the Olympic Games different levels difficulties. About 400 km of equipped slopes take about 7 thousand professional and amateur athletes every day. The quality will be appreciated not only by beginners riding on the "blue" slopes, but also by amateur athletes, for whom the "red" slopes are equipped. For professionals, the slopes marked in black on the map work. For those who prefer night skiing, there is the Milky Way zone. In addition to the ski slopes in the resort part of Piedmont, there are conditions for other winter entertainments: snow parks, helly skiing, horse and dog sledding, ice rinks, paragliding and paragliding, ski jumps, mountain climbing, flying on balloons, hiking trails have been developed.

The two highest points of this region: Mount Gran Paradiso (4061 meters above sea level) and Mt. ski season here it starts in December and ends at the end of April. But summer in Piedmont is never boring. Stunning mountain landscapes will not leave indifferent lovers of hiking, horse riding and cycling, as well as those who dream of paragliding or flying in a hot air balloon, enjoy the purest mountain air, the aromas of alpine forbs and coniferous forests. In addition, Piedmont is famous for its antiquities, such as the castles of Verre (Verr), Issogne (Isson), Fenils (Fenil), Sarre (Sarre) and Saint-Pierre (Saint-Pierre).

Alpine lake. Thinkstock Photos

Apart from ski resorts Piedmont can surprise guests and native Italians who prefer active species relaxation, beauty natural parks Val Grande and Gran Paradiso, Avigliana (Avigliana), Candia (Candia), Viverone (Viverone), Orta (Orta) and Lago Maggiore (). The climate here is quite mild, allowing you to relax, get distracted and have a great time, without languishing from the suffocating heat, which often happens in the summer months in southern regions countries. Intelligentsia, wealthy people, famous artists, writers, poets and actors discovered the lakes of Piedmont in the middle of the 19th century.

This wine and gastronomic event dedicated to the world of Italian cheeses is the most important international event in the industry with shows, tastings, courses and a huge fair of the best cheeses in the world, including very rare varieties. In addition, the cheese festival in Bra offers visitors many entertainments, literary cafes and a real school of tasters, in which you will be taught to distinguish cheeses by appearance, aroma, hardness and, of course, taste.

In addition to the cheeses themselves, the best chefs in Italy will invite you to taste various dishes in which cheese is used as an ingredient.

International Exhibition "Salon of Taste" in

"Salon of Taste" is a grandiose international show dedicated to enogastronomy, which takes place every two years in October in the pavilions of Lingotto Fiere in Turin.

The first "Salon of Taste" was held in Turin in 1996, the last - in 2014. "Salon of Taste" is a truly diverse event, where each visitor can discover the amazing gastronomic traditions of each continent. In 2014, more than 1,000 major enogastronomy producers from more than 100 countries of the world were represented at the show, 44 conferences and 170 "taste theaters" (show performances by chefs) were organized. There were also seminars and food tastings, in addition to educational initiatives and concerts.

Festival "Salon of Taste". Photo flickr.com

International White Truffle Exhibition in Alba, Truffle Fair in Moncalvo (Turin) and Alessandria

From October to November, Piedmont hosts many exciting and fragrant events dedicated to the white and black gold of Italy - His Majesty the truffle.

These days, in local restaurants, the best chefs offer special menus, which undoubtedly include dishes prepared with magnificent and valuable mushrooms, aged cheeses and incomparable Barolo and Barbaresco wines.

The most famous truffle fair is the white truffle fair in the town of Alba, where many professionals and gourmets come together in autumn to taste and buy the best truffles in the world. The beginning of the fair is preceded by another colorful event - a festive historical procession of townspeople dressed in medieval costumes, and then a mini-palio, a competition of donkey riders in the central square of the city.

National Festival of Risotto and Agnolotto" from Piedmont - Biella

The Risotto and Agnolotto Festival is one of the best gastronomic events in Piedmont and, perhaps, in the whole Northern Italy. Since 2010, Biella - the city of white truffles and excellent wines - has become the venue for a culinary show that has managed to win the recognition of world gourmets in such a short time. The holiday of risotto and agnolotto is not only various tastings, but also culinary master classes for everyone, talk shows with Italian culinary stars and colorful gastronomic shows. And let - a dish originally from Lombardy. Try it in Piedmont - we are sure that you will not regret it!

Chocolate Festival "CioccolaT"ò" in Turin

Since 2003, this delicious festival has won the hearts of many guests and locals alike. As for the "protagonist" of the holiday itself, the people of Turin have been partial to chocolate since ancient times. According to legend, the Duke of Savoy, moving the capital of the duchy to Turin, celebrated this event with a cup of hot chocolate. Today, Turin has become a real "chocolate capital": the city produces about 90 thousand tons of goodies!

Any variety of delicious Turin chocolate in various combinations and combinations - all this you can try during "CioccolaTò": 10 days of tastings, shows and cultural events for adults and children. In addition, during the festival, local chocolatiers start a real public chocolate factory: here you can see the production process with your own eyes!

CiccolaTò. Photo belpiemonte.com

Battle of the Oranges and Carnival in Ivrea

Carnival in Ivrea has been celebrated since 1808. This significant event differs from numerous events taking place in various regions of Italy, in its culmination - the battle of oranges. No one knows where this strange, but very cheerful tradition was born - to fight with city teams, using juicy oranges as weapons. The only fact remains that the carnival in Ivrea ends with a fragrant battle since the end of the Second World War.

A bright and cheerful battle takes place in the central square of the city - Piazza del Rondolino: wagons full of oranges and "arancheri" flock here - fighters specializing in throwing oranges at the enemy. All arancheri are dressed in leather suits and masks, as if in armor, in each team - no more than 10 people. The rest of the throwers are near the wagons. All "fighters" mark the enemy in the eyes - although, thanks to the suits, it is extremely difficult to get there. At the end of the battle, a special jury evaluates the efforts of the participants and awards honorary awards to the winners.

"Arancheri" in action. Photo flickr.com

Historical reenactment of the Battle of Novara

The historic battle of Novara, which took place in 1849, was lost by the Italian troops, but this event left a huge mark on the history of Italian unification. It is the day of the defeat from the Austrian troops that is considered the beginning of the Italian Risorgimento. After the lost battle of Novara, the Sardinian-Piedmontese king Carlo Alberto abdicated, handing over the reins of government to his son Vittorio Emmanuele, later the first king of a united Italy.

On March 23, a large-scale historical reenactment of the battle takes place in Novara, during which you can see all the stages of the battle between the Austrian and Italian troops during the Austro-Italian War.

Reconstruction of the Battle of Novara. Photo flickr.com

Gastronomy

Piedmont gave Italy a number of culinary masterpieces that glorified this region not only in the country itself, but also abroad. Plenty of appetizers, game, tender meats, risotto, truffles, wine…

The cuisine of Piedmont cannot be imagined without good wine and meat dishes. Piedmontese cuisine uses lamb (agnello), beef (carne bovina), veal (vitello), capons (cappone), rabbit (coniglio), goat (capra), chicken (gallina) and pork (maiale).

In the menu of restaurants, many can be struck by raw meat. However, the cuisine of Piedmont is fraught with a large number of recipes for it. For example, in the city of Alba, raw albese meat is traditionally prepared. This is lean raw veal that is cut into thin slices and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, pepper, salt and parmesan sprinkled on top. Piedmontese wines like Dolcetto d'Alba, Grignolino, Freisa, Barbera d'Alba, or white Roero Arneis are perfect with the dish.

45 wines have DOC status and another 12 have DOCG status. Among the latter, we should highlight: Barolo (Barolo), Acqui (Acqui), Dogliani (Dogliani), Ovada (Ovada), Gattinara (Gattinara), Gavi (Gavi), Gemme (Ghemme), Roero (Roero), Asti (Asti), Barbaresco (Barbaresco), Barbera d'Asti (Barbera d "Asti), Barbera del Monferrato Superiore (Barbera del Monferrato Superiore).

Black truffle. Thinkstock Photos

In addition, Piedmont is the birthplace of vermouth and "Amaro" from the alpine herbs of Mount Cesana, dark amber in color.

The most famous sweets of Piedmont are biscuit sticks savoiardi and zabaione, candied chestnuts (marroni canditi). The last delicacy is very expensive, it can be presented as a gift for Christmas.

The capital of the region, Turin, is also the most important city for the production of chocolate and other confectionery. The famous Piedmontese hazelnut praline gianduiotto was invented during the carnival of 1865 especially for the theatrical mask Gianduja, which is considered the symbol of Turin.

Needless to say about Nutella pasta, which is known to all adults and children and on which more than one generation has grown up. The Ferrero brothers invented it after World War II.

Autumn in the province of Biella. Thinkstock Photos

Tourism

How to get to the main cities of the Piedmont region?

By plane

The main airport that allows you to reach the main cities of the region is Caselle International Airport in:

Direct flights land in Turin from the main cities of Europe, Russia and Ukraine.

You can buy tickets at this link.

How to get to the airport:

By car- Turin airport is 16 km from the city center and can be easily reached in about half an hour using one of the many motorways linking main city in Piedmont with the rest of Italy.

By train- The railway line connects Caselle Airport with Turin GTT Dora railway station (www.gtt.to.it). Trains leave every half an hour from 5:13 to 19:43 to the airport and from 6:49 to 21:19 to Turin. Travel time - 19 minutes.

By bus- The center of Turin can be easily reached in 40 minutes by bus lines SADEM (www.sadem.it); the SAVDA line (www.savda.it) connects the airport with Valle d'Aosta. (Journey time is approximately 2 hours).

Taxi- The taxi rank is located outside the arrivals terminal; Estimated price per trip - 35 Euro.

For those heading to or cities included in this province, we recommend using the services in Cuneo, where planes from the main cities of Europe also arrive.

How to get to the airport:

By car

Directions: motorway A6, exit Fossano, then highway SS 20 - direction Levaldigi Airport (69 km).

A handy free site with information about train timetables for most stations: ViaggiaTreno

To help the tourist: a website that will help you plan your trip and suggest transfers - Movibyte

What to see in Piedmont?

The capital of Piedmont is the city of Turin

The Museum of Egypt in Turin is considered the second most important after the Cairo Museum due to its extensive collection of Egyptian artifacts. Already in the 1700s, Savoy had a collection Egyptian antiquities, which were added to the exhibits and statues brought by Vitaliano Donati from the mission of Carlo Emanuele III in Egypt. Here are stored golden relics, sarcophagi and mummies from different periods of Ancient Egypt.

Turin "Egyptian Museum". Photo: flickr.com

Found in the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, this white shroud with the face of the Lord is kept in the Duomo of Turin and is believed to bear the imprint of the body of Jesus; according to legend, the shroud was found by the apostles after the resurrection of Jesus. Radiocarbon analysis classifies the shroud as a 13th-century object, although theologians argue that the results are incorrect and that we are talking about the original burial sheets of the Lord.

Shroud of Turin. Photo flickr.com

Po Street

Locals and visitors to the city often call Turin the Italian Paris, and for good reason. It was transformed during the reign of the Savoy dynasty, when representatives of a noble family decided to create in this settlement a kind of Parisian Versailles with its chic, brilliance, wealth and pathos.
Start your tour of Turin from Piazza Castello to walk down one of Turin's most picturesque and architecturally important streets, Via Po. Here you will also find many shops that are adjacent to a number of historic palaces, and when your legs are tired, there are many small cafes to refresh you. Here you can taste Bicerin, a delicious and heart-warming drink made up of layers of espresso, chocolate and whole milk. The drink was invented in the 18th or 19th century in Turin and sung by Alexandre Dumas.

The Royal Palace of Turin is a magnificent seventeenth-century building that served as the residence of the Dukes of Savoy, the King of Sardinia and the King of Italy until 1865. Extended and reconstructed several times, the Royal Palace retains the mark of the interventions of the most important artists who worked in Turin. Today the palace is an object of great attraction for tourists, mainly because of the beautiful Royal Gardens behind the palace. The palace itself now houses a military museum containing various types of weapons and armor dating back to the Middle Ages.

Turin. Palazzo Reale. Photo: flickr.com

Cuneo

Lange region

A region of fine wines and excellent truffles - in the Piedmontese dialect "Langhe" means hills that clearly outline, as if minted, the landscape. Indeed, the predominantly hilly landscape of this area is only slightly inferior to the famous region of Tuscany. - an area of ​​ancient villages and small towns, scattered chaotically in the middle of green hills. Many of these areas are unknown to most tourists, however, this does not detract from the charm, but on the contrary, even attracts people who want to know the spirit and traditions of true Italy. Very many of these old "Borgos" ( Italian name villages) are marked with the "orange flag" of the tourist club of Italy for their hospitality and the beauty of the local landscapes. Come here in September local air filled with aromas of ripe grapes.

Lange region. Photo: flickr.com

The Lange region, for the most part, occupies. A tourist route usually starts from the town of Alba, the capital of the Lange, and stretches to perhaps the most famous of the cities of the Lange, which gave its name to a prestigious Italian wine variety.

Province of Cuneo

Provinces Cuneo located in the southwestern part of Piedmont and has a shape that resembles an amphitheater - in its center is a plain, while in the north the region seems to open its arms, meeting Turin, and on the sides the province is surrounded by the Alps and the Langhe hills.

Cuneo is one of the most densely populated provinces in Italy - about 555 thousand people live here. An area of ​​great beauty stretches between two rivers, Stura and Jesso, having its main center in a city rich in historical and cultural heritage, dotted with numerous monuments, possessing the perfect combination of attractions, nature, delicious regional food and excellent hospitality - Cuneo.

Barolo, province of Cuneo. Photo: tuttocitta.it

The origin of Cuneo dates back to 1198, when some locals took refuge on Pizzo di Cuneo and created a free commune of the same name. Then Cuneo was dominated by the Angevin dynasty, the Duchy of Savoy and the Visconti family. Finally, having survived several raids by the Austrians, in 1859 Cuneo was elected the capital of the province.

Vicolungo The Style Outlets

This famous outlet is located just 40 minutes from Turin. It is also easy to get here from Milan - the Vicolungo outlet is the closest shopping center of this type to Expo 2015.

Vicolungo The Style Outlets. Photo vicolungo.thestyleoutlets.it

Vicolungo The Style Outlets is home to over 150 fashion boutiques offering clothes and shoes for women, men and children, as well as home goods from famous European brands and certificates for a relaxing holiday in Italy with discounts from 30% to 70% round year

More about the Vicolungo outlet.

Mondovicino Outlet Village

Mondovicino Outlet Village is located in the town of Mondovi, one of the medieval "pearls" of the province of Cuneo, in the Piedmont region. Mondovicino Outlet, one of the largest shopping centers in Italy, has more than 85 branded stores offering fashion products for home and family, with discounts of up to 70% all year round.

Mondovicino Outlet Village. Photo flickr.com

Details about the Mondovicino outlet.

You can talk about Piedmont endlessly ... This is an amazing region that is both similar and different from the rest of Italy.

The region is considered the birthplace of a united Italy, and Turin became its first capital. From year to year, there are more and more people wishing to visit Piedmont, so travel business gaining momentum. Everything is here - high-class ski resorts and sport complexes, inherited from the 2006 Winter Olympics, thermal springs, extraordinarily beautiful natural parks and picturesque lakes, which Bohemia admired as early as the middle of the 19th century. Travelers are offered luxurious villas that belonged to the Savoy dynasty and royal residences, medieval castles and ornate basilicas, a fortress with walls that rival the Great Wall of China, and numerous works of art.

• Piedmont got its name due to the characteristic geographic location- "at the foot of the mountain".
• Turin was the birthplace of the first king of Italy, Victor Emmanuel II (1820-1878), known by the Italians as "Father of the Fatherland", and the first prime minister of Italy, Camillo Benso di Cavour (1810-1861).
• In February 2006, the capital of Piedmont hosted the XXth Olympic Games, and in March of the same year, the IXth Paralympic Games.
• Piedmontese belong to a separate ethnic group that has an independent language that is not related to Italian dialects.
• The popular Lavazza coffee brand appeared in Turin at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries.
• Piedmont ranks first in the production of solid chocolate.
• The main production areas of the automobile concern Fiat are located on the territory of the region.
• In the period from 1802 to 1814, Piedmont was "leased" by Napoleon and was part of France.
• Turin is home to one of the oldest universities in Italy. It was founded at the beginning of the 15th century.

A bit of history

Despite the fact that the first settlements found on the territory of modern Piedmont date back to the Neolithic period, the area received development only with the arrival of the Romans in these places in the 2nd century BC. In parallel with the construction of roads, they began to establish settlements, cultivate land and organize handicraft production. For a while, the region prospered, but the fall of the Roman Empire made its own adjustments. The successful strategic position of the area led to constant raids by militant neighbors and a relentless change of rulers.

Until the 15th century, the lands of Piedmont were fragmented into fiefs, until the area fell under the influence of the Duchy of Savoy. Representatives of the Savoy dynasty sought to rise above the feudal families, starting from the 11th century. At the beginning of the 18th century, Piedmont became an integral part of the Sardinian kingdom, and the main one, and Turin was already chosen as the capital. In the first half of the 19th century, the region achieved economic prosperity, becoming one of the most developed regions in Italy.

The concentration of industry in the region contributed to the emergence of a large stratum of the working class and a progressive bourgeoisie. Piedmont became the center and starting point of the democratic and national liberation movement (Risorgimento), which ended with the proclamation of an independent, united state.

Sights of Piedmont

The region is rich in natural resources, artistic masterpieces and architectural objects. Cultural heritage includes a mix of different historical eras. Here you can find Romanesque and Gothic, Baroque facades, Neoclassicism and Art Nouveau. Piedmont has royal residences with palaces, villas and castles. Pilgrims can visit congenial places, ancient monasteries, abbeys, the Holy Mountains of Piedmont and much more.

When to go to Piedmont

Piedmont weather

There are many ski resorts in the region, so lovers winter views sports come to Piedmont exclusively in the cold season. Those wishing to engage in agritourism choose a warm period, starting from late spring and ending in autumn. For tourists who want to get acquainted with natural, architectural sights and masterpieces of art, there are no travel restrictions. The region has resort areas with thermal springs, most of which operate year-round.

Piedmont is famous for its own wines made from local grape varieties. There are whole wine regions included in World List UNESCO. You can taste the divine drink at any time of the year, as well as taste the local cuisine prepared from Piedmontese cattle.

Perhaps some of the tourists will want to time their trip to the Festa del Piemonte. A grand celebration with a reconstruction of a historical battle has been held for fifty years on the third Sunday of July. And those who dream of participating in the “truffle hunt” will need to plan a trip for November-March. True, such a tour will cost a lot.

Piedmont on the map of Italy

The second largest region in Italy is located in the northwest of the country. The territory is landlocked, protected from cold winds on three sides mountain ranges Alps and the Northern Apennines, and from the east it goes to the Padana lowland. Piedmont borders on three neighboring regions and two neighboring states - in the east - with France, and in the north - with Switzerland. On one of the peaks of the Cotes Alps - Monte Viso - originates the largest river in Italy, Po. Almost 8% of the territory of Piedmont is occupied by numerous parks of national importance, the most famous of which is Gran Paradiso. The landscape is 42% mountains, 30% hills, 27% plains. The administrative area unites 8 provinces. The capital of Piedmont - Turin - is located in the central part of the region.

How to get to Piedmont

In Turin, travelers are met by Turin-Caselle International Airport, named after the 7th President of Italy - Sandro Pertini. It is located 16 km north of the capital of Piedmont. air gate accept flights of national and foreign airlines. Planes from Moscow and Chisinau land here. You can get to Turin by bus, skytrain or taxi. In addition, the airport has car rental services and a car2go car exchange service. The nearest international airports are located in Milan and Genoa. Road and rail links are developed between neighboring regions.