Sightseeing in Asti - what to see. Complete travel guide

The Italian city of Asti is widely famous for its breathtaking views created by nature. This settlement attracts many tourists every year. Asti has quite an unusual location between the hills of Monferrato and Lange. Asti is an important cultural heritage city in Italy that carefully keeps its numerous attractions. Saint Secundus of Asti is considered the patron of the city.

Ancient Romans built a military camp in this region in 129 BC. This fact marked the start of the history of Asti. The city had to endure a tough period during the Migration Period when barbaric tribes were invading the region and mercilessly robbing local people. When Lombards divided North Italy into three duchies, Asti became the capital of one of them.

Carolingians were the rulers in this region during a certain period of time. Local bishops became the main authorities in the city back then. It was a difficult period of time for local people as many of them lived in poverty. However, a greater evil happened in 1155. Frederick Barbarossa made a fire that greatly ruined the city. However, local people managed to restore it. After the sad event, they managed to get along with the Pope and the emperor. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

For many years, authorities of the neighboring Italian cities wanted to set up their authority in Asti. This fact caused the independence war that divided the city’s population. Because of the unstable civil situation in the city, the King of Naples claimed authority over the region. Asti became developing slowly, and some of the ruined buildings were restored. However, the authorities kept changing until the Savoyan dynasty became the dominant power in the region.

The Agnolotti pasta is among the traditional dishes in Asti. This is square-shaped pasta filled with well-roasted meat. The Asti region is also famous for its truffles, the most expensive delicacy in the world. Chefs in Asti usually use it raw and add it to various traditional dishes. Sauces and dressings with truffles add a peculiar and unforgettable taste and fragrance to every dish.

Do you like wine? In this case, you will find it interesting to try local wine. Asti wine is widely popular and recognized around the world. The export of this sparkling wine overcomes even French champagne. Delicate taste and well-balanced, sweet taste make this drink ultimately popular. As a rule, local winemakers use white muscat to make the majority of local wine varieties. They do their best to keep the distinctive aroma of the grape at all production stages. It is better to admire the priceless taste of muscat together with fruits and sweet food. This is a perfect dessert choice after a meal.

The Red Tower (Torre Rossa) is the first attraction of Asti. Having visited this landmark, you will learn more about the architectural structures in ancient Rome as this is exactly when the tower was erected. When Augustus ruled the city, local architects built this tower. Later, according to a legend, the patron saint of Asti was imprisoned in Torre Rossa. He was executed by throwing him down from the highest point of the Red Tower. By the way, the tower got its bright red color in the 11th century. Why did the tower change its color? The answer is simple – builders used red bricks in their work.

Asti Cathedral or the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is one more attraction that tourists should definitely visit. The large and gorgeously looking church in Gothic style dates back to the 14th century. In order to make the plans of architects come true, builders had to destroy three buildings. They used the remaining bricks to build this true architectural masterpiece. The cathedral consists of three naves and has a spacious gallery at the top. In the past, this gallery traditionally hosted municipal meetings and gatherings.

To honor the patron saint of the city - Secundus of Asti – local people built a beautiful cathedral in the 6th-7th centuries. This happened right after the saint’s execution. Local people honor the saint and decided to immortalize him in the beautiful building. The gorgeous cathedral has become the true heart of the Italian city. There is a local belief that everyone, who builds a house close to the holy relics of the saint, will enjoy a happy life. Because of this, local rich and noble families tried to have their buildings close to the cathedral. Guests of Asti still visit this cathedral hoping that their life will become happier and more pleasant, and problems will disappear.

It is possible to reach this Italian city from Torino Airport that is located 60 kilometers from Asti. This is the closest airport to the city. Having arrived at the airport, tourists can use regular buses or taxi to get to the city. If you prefer to travel by car, routes A7 and A21 are the best in this case. They connect Milan and other neighbor cities directly to Asti.