Cities
Domodossola (VB)
This city is a popular tourist destination for both Italians and visitors from abroad. It is situated in the centre of the Valli Ossolane (Ossolane Valleys), lying at the foot of the historic Mattarella Hill and the Vagna Hills. The winding little roads of the ancient Motta quarter, the Tower of the “Vescovo” (Bishop) in via Briona, the remains of the ancient ‘Chiesa di San Francesco’ (St Francis’ church), the ruins of the Sforza and Spanish walls that used to fortify the town of Domodossola and the asymmetric market square, make the historic centre of Domodossola a gem of medieval architecture. The traditional weekly market has been taking place here since the last century, it represents one of the distinguishing features of the city and its history, and it still attracts many visitors. Not far from the ‘piazza del Mercato’ (Market Square) can be admired the ‘Palazzo Silva’ (Silva Palace), one of the finest Renaissance noble buildings of Piedmont. Of 15th century origin, it was named after the Counts Della Silva. Its appearance is due to the alterations and restoration works done by several generations of counts Della Silva over the centuries. In the south of the city, outside the built-up area, is located the picturesque ‘Sacro Monte Calvario’ (Holy Calvary Mountain), it is a symbol of the religiousness that characterizes the entire ‘Valle Ossola’ (Ossola Valley). It is surrounded by vegetation, in the ‘Riserva Naturale’ (Nature Reserve), and comprises fifteen chapels embellished with columns, plinths made in gneiss, laugera or serizzo (typical stones from the area), and works of art by renowned painters and sculptors. It was declared by World Heritage Site.
Info
Piazza Repubblica dell´Ossola, 1 - 28845 Domodossola (Vb)
Tel.: +39.0324 4921
E-mail: urp@comune.domodossola.vb.it
www.comune.domodossola.vb.it
