Piedmont
Piedmont, particularly the Langhe with its ‘Colline del Barolo’ is a hilly region with Mediterranean climate, situated at the foot of the Alps.
The imposing Monte Rosa, Matterhorn and Monte Viso dominate the plain of the Po, the longest river in Italy. For a long time this region, which merits exploration, remained unknown to the tourists travelling south.
Many cultural treasures can be found in dozens of museums, palaces and churches.
In 1977 the Savoy palaces were designated ‘cultural heritage for humanity’ by UNESCO. Turin, with its baroque architecture is the fourth largest city in Italy, with approximately 1 million inhabitants.
Turin’s development was closely aligned with the history of the Savoy. It is the home of Fiat. Ivrea where Olivetti is based is called the ‘silicon valley of Italy’ Ferrero, a world famous producer of chocolates,
has its headquarters in Alba.
In the hills of the Roero and Langhe agriculture predominates, especially wine production. The area produces Dolcetto, Favorita, Chardonnay, Roero Arneis, Barbera, Nebbiolo as well as Barolo and Barberesco, which have a reputation worldwide. From Alba, white truffles also come. They are offered for sale in October at the largest truffle market called ‘fiera nazionale del tartufo’.
Piedmont connects modernity with tradition in a very impressive way.