Attractions and Places To See around Briona - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Briona are found in the Novara hills of Italy, a region rich in historical landmarks and cultural sites. Its origins trace back to pre-Roman times, offering a blend of ancient history and natural beauty. The area is characterized by its picturesque landscapes and the presence of the Strona River, contributing to its strategic location. Briona is part of a broader initiative to promote the region's numerous castles and historical significance.
Best attractions and places to see around Briona
- The most popular attractions is Castello di Proh, a castle that was once a place of "leisure and delights" and is now part of the Cultural Park project of the Novara Hills. Renovations are ongoing, but cultural initiatives and guided excursions are sometimes available.
- Another must-see spot is Basilica of San Gaudenzio, a religious building known for its dome, designed by Alessandro Antonelli. The dome offers a vast panorama of the city and the plain below.
- Visitors also love Visconti-Sforza Castle (Novara), a castle located in the city center of Novara. It was erected on the former corner of the Roman and Middle Age walls and now houses a museum complex.
- Briona is known for castles, historical sites, and cultural landmarks. The region offers a variety of attractions to explore, from ancient fortifications to significant religious architecture.
- The attractions around Briona are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 70 upvotes and over 30 photos shared.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Castello di Proh
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The parish church was located in a strategic position and was crossed by the "biandrina road", which allowed internal communication within the possessions of the Counts of Biandrate
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Basilica of San Gaudenzio
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Jet Monument at Cameri Air Base
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The airport immediately jumped to the headlines for a remarkable feat: on July 27, 1914, for the first time in the history of aviation, an airplane flies over the Alps with a passenger on board, the Novara Giuseppe Lampugnani, known as Pinin, man of letters and high school teacher but also experienced climber. Pilot is Achille Landini, flight instructor and director of the aviation school in Cameri; the airplane is a "Gabardini 80 horsepower" called Gabarda; the route is Cameri-Viege, in Swiss territory, with a flight over the peaks of Monte Rosa. The next day the Great War broke out.
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Cavour Canal
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Visconti-Sforza Castle (Novara)
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The chirch is impressive, doesn't matter to have double highlight
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The Visconti-Sforza Castle of Novara is a castle located in the south-western border of the old center of Novara. It was erected on the former corner of the Roman and Middle Age walls that surrounded the city. The origin of the castle is connected to the transfer of Novara under the influence of Milan, taking place in the second half of the 13th century. In 1272 Francesco Della Torre (member of the family ruler of Milan), after taking over the city, ordered the construction of a fortification on the site belonged to the Tettoni family. In the 14th century, after the exchange of the ruling families from the Della Torre to the Visconti, the Lord of Milan Giovanni Visconti (1339-1354) paid again attention to Novara and had the castle built. The castle was strengthened by his successors Galeazzo II (1354-1378) and Gian Galeazzo (1378-1402). Works and repairs were done over the years by Francesco Sforza. His son, the duke Galeazzo Maria, carried out the major transformation of the building. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visconti-Sforza_Castle_(Novara)
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Basilica of San Gaudenzio - you can see this church from a great distance, it shines above the rooftops and the other churches in the city. A guide to it. And when you are inside, you understand its height. Look up and be amazed at what has been built here.
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Novara Castle is located in the city center
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Since it is a military zone… We should take advantage of the opportunities to open to the public….
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To stop and visit, a spectacular castle and almost unknown to many...it deserves a short stop also for the photographs
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Impressive basilica, especially the mighty tower
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Going there is a duty to welcome you and give you a perfect postcard and then you can have fun with fast routes
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Briona located?
Briona is a charming town nestled in the Novara hills of Italy, within the Province of Novara. It's situated in a region rich with historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty, overlooking the Strona River.
What kind of historical sites can I explore in Briona and its surroundings?
The area around Briona is rich in history. You can visit the prominent Briona Castle (Castello Solaroli), which dates back to the 14th and 15th centuries and features a distinctive dovecote tower. Other notable historical sites include the Romanesque Chiesa di Santa Maria near Cascina Cella Vecchia, the frescoed Cappella della Mora, and the Church of St. Anthony near San Bernardino. Don't miss the Visconti-Sforza Castle (Novara), located in the city center of Novara, which now houses a museum complex.
Are there any castles I can visit near Briona?
Yes, Briona is known for its castles. Besides the Briona Castle (Castello Solaroli), you can explore Castello di Proh, once described as a place of "leisure and delights" and now part of a Cultural Park project. While renovations are ongoing, external visits and cultural initiatives are sometimes available. The Visconti-Sforza Castle (Novara) is also a significant historical fortification nearby.
What natural features can I enjoy around Briona?
Briona is set within the picturesque Novara Hills, offering beautiful landscapes. The town itself overlooks the Strona River. A significant nearby feature is the Cavour Canal, an artificial canal nearly 83 km long that plays a crucial role in agriculture and offers excellent gravel segments for cycling.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Briona area?
Many of the historical sites, such as the castles and churches, can be interesting for families, especially those with an interest in history. The Castello di Proh and Visconti-Sforza Castle (Novara) are categorized as family-friendly. Exploring the natural landscapes of the Novara Hills and walking along the Cavour Canal can also be enjoyable family activities.
What outdoor activities can I do near Briona?
The region around Briona is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and running. For example, there's an easy 7.5 km "Briona Castle loop from Briona" for hiking, or a moderate 8.8 km "Vineyard of the Giant Pencils loop from Briona" for running. Cyclists can enjoy the easy 19.9 km "Castle of Proh and the Novara plain — Ring tour." You can find more options on the dedicated guides for hiking, cycling, and running around Briona.
Are there any accessible attractions for visitors with mobility considerations?
The Jet Monument at Cameri Air Base is listed as wheelchair accessible, offering an unusual photo opportunity. For other attractions, it's advisable to check specific site information, as many historical buildings may have limited accessibility due to their age and structure.
What is the best time to visit Briona for outdoor activities?
The Novara hills generally offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities during spring and autumn, when temperatures are mild and the landscapes are vibrant. Summer can also be suitable, though it might be warmer. Winter hiking is possible, but some trails might be less accessible depending on conditions.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Briona?
Visitors appreciate the rich historical significance and the architectural beauty of the castles and religious buildings. The panoramic views from places like the Dome of Basilica of San Gaudenzio are highly praised. The blend of ancient history with the natural beauty of the Novara Hills also makes the area a captivating destination for exploration.
Can I find any unique cultural landmarks in the area?
Absolutely. Beyond the castles, the Basilica of San Gaudenzio in Novara, with its iconic dome designed by Alessandro Antonelli, is a significant cultural and architectural marvel. The small Cappella della Mora is also unique for its barrel vault completely frescoed with depictions of the Twelve Prophets, offering a glimpse into late Sforza era art.
Are there any specific monuments related to aviation history near Briona?
Yes, you can find the Jet Monument at Cameri Air Base. This site marks the origins of Cameri airport, which became a prestigious Flight School in 1910 and was notable for the first airplane flight over the Alps with a passenger in 1914. It's a unique spot for an unusual photo.
Most popular attractions around Briona
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