Municipalities of Nizza DOCG

Tucked away in the heart of Monferrato Astigiano, about 20 km from Asti, Agliano Terme is a small town of 1,500 people known for its winemaking tradition, historic charm and thermal springs.

History and Origins

The name Agliano dates back to Roman times and comes from the family name Allius. The first written record appears in the 10th century, when the town was referred to in medieval documents as Alljanus, and later Aglanus.

Agliano gained historical recognition in the Middle Ages thanks to Bianca Lancia – a noblewoman said to have captured the heart of Emperor Frederick II. According to legend, around 1225, the emperor visited the castle in Agliano, fell in love with Bianca, and brought her to Sicily. Their son Manfred was born there – the future king of Naples and Sicily.

Thermal Waters

The town’s relationship with its thermal springs goes back to 1770, when mineral-rich waters were first discovered. Flowing at a constant 13°C, these waters have been valued ever since for their therapeutic benefits.

Belveglio is a charming village of around 500 residents, located in the province of Asti and surrounded by the rolling hills of Piedmont.

History and Origins

In the Middle Ages, Belveglio was known by the rather ominous name Malamorte – likely a reference to the frequent conflicts that plagued the area. The first known feudal lord was Raimondo Turco, a member of a noble family from Asti.

Following the descent of Frederick Barbarossa, the territory came under the control of the Marquises of Incisa. After the Peace of Constance, however, it was returned to the jurisdiction of the city of Asti. In the centuries that followed, the village suffered repeated destruction due to ongoing clashes between rival Astigiani factions, until the Visconti seized power and assigned Belveglio to the Guttuari family.

In the late 14th century, the village became part of the dowry of Valentina Visconti, and it was likely around this time that the name changed to Belvedere. It later came under the rule of Charles V, followed by Duchess Beatrice of Savoy, mother of Emmanuel Philibert. During the Napoleonic era, the name changed once more – this time to Belveglio, which it has retained ever since.

Bruno is a small village in the province of Asti.

History and Origins

The origins of the settlement date back to the Bronze Age, with traces of both Celtic and Roman presence. The name Bruno is thought to come from the Celtic term Brigo-dunum, meaning “hill of the fortress.” During the Middle Ages, the area was hotly contested by various noble families and dynasties, with Monferrato serving as the main regional power.

Throughout the medieval period, the fief changed hands several times – ruled by families such as the Carena and the Scarampi – while the village itself often found itself caught in the crossfire of conflicts between rival city-states and lords. During the Renaissance, Bruno became part of the Marquisate of Monferrato, later absorbed by the Gonzaga family, and eventually came under Savoy rule in the 18th century.

With an economy rooted in agriculture, the area endured its share of hardship over the centuries – from wars and plagues to famines. Among its most influential feudal lords were the Faà di Bruno family, who ruled the village for generations and played a prominent role in the broader history of Monferrato.

Calamandrana is a town of about 1,700 people in the province of Asti, set among rolling hills and steeped in a long-standing winemaking tradition.

History and Origins

The name Calamandrana first appears in a document from 1129. Its origins are debated – some believe it comes from the phrase calano le mandrie (“herds descend”), referring to livestock being driven down to the plains, while others trace it to the presence of a small oak tree known locally as calamandrina.

The Castle of Calamandrana has witnessed centuries of conflict and change. Thanks to its strategic position, it was long a coveted prize among rival factions. Originally owned by the Canelli family, it later passed through the hands of the Marquises of Monferrato, the Alessandrini, the Visconti, and eventually the Cordara family. The octagonal tower – the castle’s oldest feature – was rebuilt in 1963 after being damaged in the 1889 earthquake.

Traditions

Each year, the town hosts the Fiera del Bestiame, a major livestock fair that celebrates the prized Fassona breed of Piedmontese cattle – particularly the highly regarded della Coscia variety. The event offers a unique glimpse into the region’s agricultural heritage.

What to See

• Calamandrana Castle – A striking historic fortress topped by an octagonal tower, one of the town’s most iconic landmarks.

• Parish Church of San Giovanni Battista – A local church with notable architectural and artistic value.
• Livestock Fair – Held annually, this event is a key showcase for the area’s farming and cattle-breeding traditions, with a spotlight on the Piedmontese Fassona breed.

Castel Boglione is a small town of around 600 residents located in the heart of Monferrato – a region celebrated for its winemaking heritage and breathtaking landscapes.

History and Origins
The name Castel Boglione has deep historical roots: the first part refers to a now-vanished castle, while the second may derive from Latin, possibly alluding to a local hot spring.

The first known mention dates back to 967, when Emperor Otto I granted the land to Marquis Aleramo. From 1203 onward, the Marquises of Monferrato ruled the area for nearly four centuries, leaving a lasting mark on the town’s history.

What to See

• Church of the Sacred Heart – Built in 1914, this majestic neo-Byzantine parish church is the town’s main landmark. With three naves, an octagonal dome and a prominent transept, the building features striking geometric decorations and modern frescoes.

Castel Rocchero is a small hilltop community of around 395 residents, set in the heart of Monferrato.

History and Origins

The first historical mention of Castel Rocchero dates back to 967, and over the centuries, the town passed through the hands of several noble families. Notable among them were Marquis Alearmo of Liguria and Monferrato, the Scarampi, the Counts of Biandrate, and finally the Counts Blesi, who took control in 1833.

A pivotal moment in the village’s history was the 1496 siege by troops from Acqui, which nearly led to its destruction. One of its most significant historical structures was the medieval castle, now sadly lost to time.

What to See

• Parish Church of Saint Andrew the Apostle – Built in 1903, the church’s architecture conveys a sense of lightness and upward movement. Surrounded by rows of elegant columns, it reaches its visual peak with a grand oval opening topped by a majestic pediment.

Castelnuovo Belbo is a charming village in the province of Asti, home to about 900 people.

History and Origins

Castelnuovo Belbo’s history goes back to the year 990, when the Marquisate of Incisa claimed the area. After being ravaged by Gian Giacomo Trivulzio, the territory was incorporated into the holdings of the Marquis Perreto in 1594. A new chapter began in 1619, when the Gonzaga family acquired the land. While their arrival brought renewed influence and identity, few architectural or historical traces remain from that era.

What to See

• Parish Church of San Biagio – Built using the same materials as the demolished Church of Santa Maria in 1760. The façade features a striking fresco of Saint Biagio flanked by two angels, and inside is a 17th-century painting of the saint.
• Town Hall – A historic building that embodies the town’s past through its architecture and civic role.
• Francesco Cirio Museum – A small museum dedicated to preserving the cultural and historical memory of Castelnuovo Belbo.
• Nizza Bench & Zane E. Carlson Hill – Two scenic spots offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside – ideal for nature lovers.

Traditions

Every year, the town celebrates the Fiera di San Biagio on the first Sunday of February. The day begins with a mass, followed by a traditional lunch featuring pacloche – a distinctive, oversized version of Piedmontese agnolotti. Served either with a white sauce or a rich meat ragù, pacloche are a beloved local specialty.

Castelnuovo Calcea is a small village of 726 residents that has borne witness to centuries of shifting peoples and cultures – from the Ligurian Statielli and the Romans to the Lombards and the Franks.

History and Origins

The village has ancient roots, shaped by the passage of multiple civilizations over the centuries. Though it was destroyed by Frederick Barbarossa, Castelnuovo Calcea rose from the ashes with the help of prominent local families – first the Guttuari of Asti in the 14th century, then, from 1735, the House of Savoy.

What to See

• Fondo Ponte Staircase – A scenic walk that leads to the castle and the grand town hall, offering sweeping views and a strong sense of the town’s historic character.
• Parish Church of Santo Stefano – A key landmark in the village’s religious heritage, featuring 19th-century frescoes.
• Church of San Siro – Another example of local sacred art that enriches the spiritual and architectural landscape.
• Chapel of the Madonna di Loreto – A small gem that adds beauty and devotion to the area.
• Church of the Annunziata – One more religious site that reflects the deep-rooted faith traditions of the village.
• Angelo Brofferio Museum – A tribute to local writer Angelo Brofferio and his contribution to Italian literature.
• Art Park La Court – A unique space where art and nature come together, perfect for those who appreciate culture and natural beauty.

A picturesque village of 536 residents, Cortiglione is best known for its rocky outcrops that contain marine fossils dating back around 3 million years.

History and Origins

The name Corticelle first appeared in 1401 in a document issued by Emperor Henry III. In 1863, it was officially changed to Cortiglione. During the Middle Ages, the village was under the control of the city of Asti before passing to the Marquises of Monferrato. In the 17th century, it came into the hands of the Panizzoni and the Ricci families of Savona.

Traditions

• Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary – Held on the first Sunday of October, this celebration is a great opportunity to enjoy traditional local food.
• Harvest and Grape-Stomping Festival – A beloved tradition that honors the grape harvest and the age-old art of winemaking. The day begins with grape picking at local wineries and continues in the afternoon with communal grape stomping in a classic wooden vat.

What to See

• Ruins of the Medieval Castle – A fascinating trace of the village’s historic past.
• 19th-Century Town Hall – A fine example of 1800s civic architecture.
• Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima – A Marian procession is held here every year on May 13 to commemorate the apparition of the Virgin Mary.
• Val Sarmassa Nature Reserve – A peaceful haven of woods, meadows, fields and vineyards – ideal for walks surrounded by nature.

Incisa Scapaccino is a small town of 2,288 residents that quietly preserves the secrets of a thousand-year-old history.

History and Origins

The first documented mention of the town dates back to the year 984 – the beginning of a long and eventful past. Over the centuries, Incisa Scapaccino was the site of battles, conquests and shifting noble ownership, each leaving a lasting mark on its identity.

What to See

Town Hall and Palazzo Serbelloni Busca – A grand historic building that still carries the elegance and presence of the noble families who once lived there.

Porta di Valcazara – This ancient gate once marked the entrance to the castle and now stands as a reminder of the village’s former grandeur.

Parish Church of Saints Vittore and Corona – Built between 1716 and 1735, this church is a key part of local heritage, with a richly decorated Baroque interior.

Castello Nuovo – A 20th-century Neo-Gothic palace that rises above the main square, symbolising the town’s modern rebirth.

Moasca is a small hillside community of about 500 residents, located 24 kilometers from Asti. With likely medieval origins, the village has long been tied to the history of the Belbo Valley.

History and Origins

The earliest historical records of Moasca date back to the 12th century, when it was part of the consortium of lords from Canelli. In the 14th century, the village became embroiled in the wars between the Guelphs (Solaro) and the Ghibellines (De Castello and Del Carretto). After the conflict ended in 1351, the castle was rebuilt and came under the control of the Asinari family.

The Castle of Moasca, built in the 14th century on the site of an earlier fortress, remains the town’s defining landmark. Though only parts of the eastern façade and two large cylindrical towers survive, the structure has been recently restored and now hosts a contemporary art gallery featuring works by nationally renowned artists.

Traditions

Moasca celebrates its agricultural and cultural roots each year through village festivals and local events, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional cuisine and rural life.

What to See

Moasca Castle – Built in the 14th century and offering breathtaking views over the surrounding hills. Today, it houses a contemporary art gallery and stands as a powerful symbol of the village’s history.

Town Hall and 17th-Century Churches – In the village center, you’ll find the town hall and two historic churches: the parish church of Saints Peter and Paul, and the small brick church of San Rocco, home to the Confraternita dei Battuti.

Rivi Nature Area – A former wetland traditionally used for forage crops, now a haven of local biodiversity and a peaceful destination for nature lovers.

Mombaruzzo is a hilltop village of 1,104 residents, perched along a ridge that offers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

History and Origins

The earliest records of Mombaruzzo date back to the 12th century, though the town is more thoroughly documented from 1202, during the rule of Marquis Bonifacio of Monferrato. Over the centuries, its history has been closely tied to the Marquisate of Monferrato, before eventually becoming part of Piedmont under Savoy rule.

Traditions

Mombaruzzo is best known for its amaretti – almond-flavored biscuits with a hint of bitterness, thanks to the use of armelline (apricot kernels). This delicacy dates back to the 18th century and was created by Francesco Moriondo, pastry chef to the royal court of Savoy. To this day, the sweets are handmade using the original recipe, keeping alive a proud artisanal tradition.

What to See

• Civic Tower – A striking Gothic tower that once served as both timekeeper and lookout post, now a symbol of the village.
• Porta Merlera – A historic gate complete with drawbridge and towers, marking the entrance to the village and bearing witness to its commercial past.
• Church of Santa Maria Maddalena – Dating to the 14th century, this brick church houses fine 19th-century decorations, including a historic organ from 1844. It also holds traces of dramatic moments in local history, such as a massacre in 1625 and the plague of 1650.

With a population of 2,239, Mombercelli traces its origins back to 1125.

History and Origins

Mombercelli’s past is marked by conflict and political shifts. During the Middle Ages, the village was caught in the crossfire of the Guelph and Ghibelline wars, enduring repeated sieges and changes in rule. In the 14th century, it became part of the Duchy of Milan, then later passed under Savoy control in the 17th century, following the broader fate of Piedmont until its integration into the Kingdom of Sardinia in the 18th century.

Traditions

Mombercelli is known for its fine wines and prized white truffles – both of which take center stage at the Regional Fair of Truffles and Local Products, held each October. This popular event draws visitors from across the region with tastings, food stalls and celebrations of local gastronomic excellence.

What to See

MUSarMO – Civic Museum of Modern Art and Historical Museum of Vine and Wine – Two cultural spaces that showcase the region’s winemaking heritage and local contributions to modern art.

Mombercelli Castle – The imposing ruins speak to the village’s medieval past. Massive stone walls and the central keep still dominate the surrounding hills.

Parish Church of San Biagio – Built in 1605 and expanded over time, it features a side chapel and 1930s frescoes by Ottavio Baussano.

Sanctuary of the Assumption of Mary at Fontanabuona – A beloved place of worship deeply tied to the town’s religious traditions.

Giant Bottles of Mombercelli – Artistic installations found along Via Marconi, Via Valmanella and Piazza Unione Europea – playful, oversized symbols of the town’s wine-growing identity.

Also known in local dialect as Rochëtta Palafèja, Rocchetta Palafea is a small hilltop village in the province of Asti, overlooking the Belbo Valley. It is home to around 330 residents.

History and Origins

The village’s history is closely tied to its strategic military location – as its name suggests. Perched on a hill that once served as a key lookout and defensive site, Rocchetta Palafea still bears visible traces of its past in the form of its medieval tower and ancient walls.

In the Middle Ages, it was part of the Aleramic Marquisate – a major feudal power in the region. Then in 1347, the village came under the control of the Republic of Genoa, which granted it as a fief to Enrico del Carretto. This marked a significant chapter of political and military ties that would shape the town’s identity.

What to See

• Medieval Tower – The iconic symbol of Rocchetta Palafea, offering sweeping views across the surrounding hills.
• War Memorial – Located in the historic center, this monument honors the community’s wartime sacrifices and preserves a vital part of local memory.

San Marzano Oliveto is a picturesque village of 984 residents.

History and Origins

With ancient roots likely tracing back to the Ligurian people, the village came under the control of the noble Asinari family in the 14th century. Their influence is still visible today in the imposing castle – fortified with square corner towers, one of which still retains its original machicolations – and in local place names, such as the Valle Asinari. After a brief Spanish occupation in 1655, the castle was returned to the Asinari, who transformed it into a countryside residence.

What to See

• San Marzano Oliveto Castle – Now privately owned and used for events and weddings, the castle features impressive vaulted cellars with arches reminiscent of a Gothic cathedral, and a panoramic garden terrace that offers stunning views.
• Parish Church of San Marziano – Originally founded in the 13th century, expanded between 1758 and 1763, and restored in 1843. The interior is decorated with 19th-century paintings attributed to the school of Lorenzo Ivaldi and features a single nave with a neoclassical presbytery and choir.

Vaglio Serra is a charming hilltop village in the province of Asti, set in a sweeping landscape that stretches from the Ligurian Apennines to the Alps.

History and Origins

The village may date back to Roman times, though the first written records appear in the Middle Ages. Thanks to its strategic location, Vaglio Serra has long been a hub for viticulture and agricultural activity.

What to See

• Church of the Confraternity of the Disciplinati – Dating to the 16th century and dedicated to the Holy Shroud, this church was visited by Saint Charles Borromeo in 1578. It houses a valuable 18th-century wooden bas-relief and a 19th-century fresco by Rodolfo Morgari.
• San Pancrazio Sanctuary – Built in 948 AD, this sanctuary has been a site of pilgrimage for centuries.
• Stella Castle – A 16th-century fortress with a crenellated tower, now a picturesque venue for weddings.
• Palazzo dei Baroni Crova – A historic building that now serves as the town hall.

Vinchio is a village of 601 residents, spread across hills of Tertiary origin that emerged around 7 million years ago from the ancient Tethys Ocean.

History and Origins

The name Vinchio has ancient roots, dating back to the Neolithic period, as evidenced by the discovery of stone tools in the area. A key moment in its history was the victory of Count Aleramo over the Saracens in 935 AD – a foundational event that marks the beginning of the town’s long and storied past. Vinchio is also mentioned in 948 in reference to the Basilica Santi Pancrati in Castro Vinci, and its incorporation into the Comitatus of Loreto in 1125 represents another significant chapter in its development.

Traditions

Vinchio is known for its strong culinary traditions, especially the Sagra dell’Asparago Saraceno – a festival celebrating the local “Saracen Asparagus.” This unique variety owes its distinctive flavor to the fossil-rich soils of the area. Its name recalls the Bricco dei Saraceni, a nearby hill steeped in legend, said to be the site of ancient battles.

What to See

• Parish Church of San Marco – A baroque church with a splendid altar and a bell tower dating to 1767, it remains a central landmark for the community.
• Confraternity of the Holy Trinity – A 16th-century building that still serves as a place of worship and gathering.
• House of Memory – A museum exploring the connection between agriculture and the Resistance, chronicling the history of Vinchio during World War II.
• Davide Lajolo Multimedia Museum – Dedicated to the writer Davide Lajolo, this museum celebrates his life and work, much of which was inspired by the hills of Vinchio.
• Lajolo Literary Trails – Three walking routes that lead visitors through the landscapes that inspired Lajolo’s writing, offering an immersive experience in the nature surrounding the village.