Culture of Asti. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Splendid palaces and cathedrals with ancient frescoes, unique museums and historic sites - these are the main values of Asti that are sure to impress all tour lovers. You can start your acquaintance with the city with visiting the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral, a striking 13th-century architectural monument. Interestingly, the exterior of the cathedral combines features of the Gothic and Romanesque styles. Its construction was completed in 1266 and it has been one of the largest cathedrals in Piedmont since then. The cathedral is also remarkable with its amazingly beautiful interior design and fine 18th-century frescoes. You'll also have a chance to admire skillful altar painting, as well as silver decorations. Some elements of the church's decor were created more than 500 years ago! One of the oldest fragments of the decoration is the mosaic floor.

Ancient churches and cathedrals make up a significant part of Asti's popular attractions. It will certainly be interesting for you to visit the Church of San Secondo located on one of the most beautiful medieval streets, not far from Palazzo Civico. The very first church was erected in this place back in the 6th century. A beautiful ancient crypt has been preserved from those distant times. The church you can see now was built on the site of the previous one in the 13th century. It is also notable for its indescribably beautiful artistic decoration.

An interesting feature of the picturesque town is the variety of ancient towers, each of which has its own unique features. The oldest tower is Rossa di San Secondo, which was built back in Roman times. The 38-meter-tall tower was erected by order of Emperor Augustus himself. Torre de Regibus is of special interest from an architectural point of view. This 700-year-old tower is remarkable for its unusual octagonal shape. Among the most beautiful architectural monuments of Asti, it is also worth highlighting Torre del Comentini, which was also erected in the 13th century. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Today, many old churches house interesting museums, and Chiesa Sant'Anastasio is a great example. This church was built in the 8th century and has been rebuilt multiple times over the next 400 years. Now there is a small museum within its walls, the main exhibits of which are ancient sculptures and capitals. The church's ancient decoration elements are also of great historical value.

Among Asti's other architectural attractions, the 12th-century Battistero di San Pietro stands out. The large domed building is one of the largest in town. Its entire territory and halls are open for tours. You will have the opportunity to walk in its charming courtyard with arches, which is always decorated with ornamental plants.

Of special interest are the city's historic palaces, many of which have also been converted into museums. The most beautiful historical monument is Palazzo Mazzetti that was totally reconstructed in 2000. Currently, the palace houses the main city museum, which has gathered a very interesting and diverse collection. Here you can see ancient weapons, chic porcelain items, and works of art. The palace contains a rich collection of antique furniture and regularly hosts exciting themed exhibitions.

Be sure to visit the city's archaeological museum, Museo Archeologico. Archaeological research has been ongoing on the territory of the region for over a hundred years. Hundreds of valuable exhibits have been discovered here during this time. In Ancient Roman times, several large cities were located on the site of modern Asti. Researchers discovered fragments of many ancient palaces and religious buildings. The most valuable and interesting exhibits that were found in these places are exhibited in the museum today.

Palazzo Ottolenghi is a striking architectural monument of the 18th century. Hundreds of years ago this palace was divided into two parts and belonged to two different families. Only at the end of the 18th century, the new owner bought out the entire palace. It was used to receive high-ranking guests and was transferred to the city in 1932. Today, the old palace houses a local administrative office and is open for tours on certain days. An interesting collection of antique furniture, paintings, and other antiques is kept within the walls of the palace.