Novara, located in the heart of Piedmont, is a city rich in charm, history, and culture.

Positioned strategically between Milan and Turin, it offers the perfect balance between the vibrancy of a modern urban center and the authenticity of a destination still deeply connected to its roots. Its historic monuments, elegant architecture, and unique landscapes make Novara an ideal place to discover.

The Basilica of San Gaudenzio and Antonelli’s Dome

The most iconic landmark of Novara is the Basilica of San Gaudenzio, dedicated to the city’s patron saint. Its fame is tied above all to the majestic dome designed by Alessandro Antonelli, an extraordinary architectural feat and still today the tallest masonry dome in the world. Visible from afar, the dome dominates the skyline and represents the true symbol of Novara. Inside, the basilica preserves important works of art, ornate chapels, and an atmosphere that speaks to centuries of faith and devotion.

The Cathedral and the Early Christian Baptistery

The Cathedral of Novara, another masterpiece by Alessandro Antonelli, is an essential stop in the city. Built in neoclassical style, it impresses with its colonnaded façade and its spacious, luminous interiors. Next to the cathedral stands the Baptistery of San Giovanni, one of the oldest Christian monuments in northern Italy, dating back to the 4th–5th centuries. This small octagonal building represents a rare and precious testimony of early Christian architecture in Piedmont.

The Broletto and the Historic Center

A stroll through the historic center leads to the Broletto Complex, a harmonious ensemble of medieval buildings that historically functioned as the civic heart of Novara. Today, it is home to exhibitions, cultural events, and museums. Surrounding the Broletto, the streets of the old town preserve their medieval and Renaissance layout, with elegant palaces, hidden courtyards, and charming squares. The area offers an evocative urban landscape where history and daily life coexist naturally.

The Visconti-Sforza Castle

Another symbol of Novara is the Visconti-Sforza Castle, a fortress that has played an important role in the political and military history of the region. Originally built in the Middle Ages, it was later expanded under the Sforza family and served as both a military stronghold and an administrative center. Today, the castle is often used as a cultural venue and hosts exhibitions, conferences, and artistic initiatives, maintaining its role as a gathering place for the community.

Museums and Cultural Life

Novara boasts a lively cultural scene, enriched by its museums and institutions. The Civic Museum of Art and History, housed within the Broletto complex, conserves a wide collection of artworks ranging from the Middle Ages to the contemporary period. The Faraggiana Ferrandi Museum of Natural History offers fascinating collections of flora, fauna, and minerals, making it a valuable destination for families and nature enthusiasts.

Equally significant is the Teatro Coccia, a prestigious 19th-century theater that embodies the elegance of Italian opera houses. Its program includes opera, concerts, ballet, and contemporary performances, making it a cultural landmark not only for Novara but for the entire region.

Green Spaces and Landscapes

Despite its urban character, Novara offers numerous opportunities to enjoy nature. The Public Gardens and Parco dei Bambini provide peaceful green areas within the city, ideal for relaxing strolls or quiet moments. Just outside the urban area, the landscape is dominated by vast rice fields, which are a defining feature of the Novara countryside. In spring and summer, when the rice paddies are flooded with water, they create a striking mirror effect that has earned the area the nickname “the sea of rice.” This scenery represents not only a natural attraction but also a reflection of centuries-old agricultural traditions.

Traditions and Gastronomy

No description of Novara would be complete without mentioning its culinary heritage. The city and its surrounding countryside are closely tied to the cultivation of rice, making risotto one of the cornerstones of local gastronomy. Novara is also known for its cheese production, particularly Gorgonzola, which originates from this region, and for cured meats such as the traditional salame della duja. The local food culture adds an authentic and flavorful dimension to any visit, complementing the city’s artistic and architectural treasures.