Biella and the Medieval Village of Candelo
Duration: 10 hours
Languages: IT, EN, DE, FR, ES

Located in the north east of Piedmont, the city of Biella can be reached in a short time from Turin. In 2019 it entered the list of the “creative cities” of UNESCO thanks to its time rooted textile production which enhanced the creativity of locals, called “Biellesi”.

Located on 2 levels connected by a funicular since 1886, Biella Piano and Biella Piazzo offer masterpieces from every era. Romanesque art is beautifully evoked in Piano by the baptistery and bell tower of the demolished church of Santo Stefano, while the beautiful facades of nineteenth-century villas and buildings embellish what is now considered the “modern” city of Biella.  Piazzo, on the other hand, is a real medieval village founded in 1160 by the bishop of Vercelli with the intention of building his own residence. Over the centuries the residences of the great noble dynasties of Biella  flourished, while those families  played a driving role for the entire city.

The excursion, which includes a guided tour of Biella Piano and Piazzo, then continues a few kilometers from the city to discover and admire the famous walled village of Candelo built between the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries by the community as a shelter from the attacks of enemies. In fact, during the medieval conflicts the locals were used to retreated inside this walled village, while in times of peace the place was used as a warehouse for food as well as a community cellar.

Depending on the period and your preferences, the city of Biella can also be combined with the Sanctuary of Oropa or the Burcina Park.  Not far from Biella stands the Sanctuary of Oropa, one of the most important Marian centers in Piedmont. Located at the foot of Mount Mucrone, the complex overlooks the city of Biella as if it was a balcony over the valley offering the visitor one of the most beautiful Piedmontese panoramas. In the months of April and May, the nearby Parco Burcina offers an explosion of colors thanks to the flowering of azaleas and rhododendrons without forgetting the various species of native and non-native trees.

Inclusions: Car (or minivan), Guide.

Exclusions: meals, tips and anything not included in the inclusions section.

For programmes and reservation please write to events@petiteevents.it