Attractions and Places To See around Biandrate - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Biandrate, a municipality in the Province of Novara, Italy, offer a glimpse into its rich medieval past. The area's historical significance, particularly through the Counts of Biandrate, serves as its primary point of interest. While Biandrate itself is a smaller locality, the wider Province of Novara provides additional cultural sites and natural features. Visitors can explore historical landmarks and natural areas within the region.
Best attractions and places to see around Biandrate
- The…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Castello di Proh
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Basilica of San Gaudenzio
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Lame del Sesia Natural Park
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Visconti-Sforza Castle (Novara)
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Palazzo Natta
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In the place, already in Roman …
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Palazzo Natta is an ancient historical-noble palace in the city of Novara, in Piedmont. Today it houses the Province of Novara and the prefecture. In the place, already in Roman times near the Cardo (corresponding to the Cavour and Mazzini courses) and the Decumanus (corresponding to the Cavallotti and Italia courses), there was the aristocratic district of the city in the Middle Ages, called Contrada delle torri lunghe. Around the 13th century the Counts Caccia di Mandello and Castellazzo, a noble and ancient family from Novara, built their residence there, of which the civic tower with the clock is preserved today; documented as early as 1268 and called Torre grande. Later the building was acquired by the Natta d'Alfiano and Natta Isola di Casale families, who rebuilt and enlarged it between the 16th and 18th centuries. The main project of 1580 is attributed to the famous architect Pellegrino Tibaldi, who composed a square-plan palace centered on the internal porticoed courtyard and with a rear garden aligned perspectively on the main axis of the building. The courtyard, surrounded by a portico on Doric columns, has a compass rose made with river pebbles on the pavement, also repeated in the garden. A monumental staircase leads to the first floor, where the rooms are decorated with frescoes by the painter De Giorgi. After the unification of Italy, the palace was raised by one floor and the two final ramps were added to the staircase. The garden, restored in 1998, is centered on a fountain in pink Baveno marble and is closed by an eighteenth-century exedra in rocaille style that frames a trompe-l'œil. https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palazzo_Natta
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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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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
What historical sites can I explore near Biandrate?
Near Biandrate, you can visit the historic Castello di Proh, which was a significant medieval stronghold. While currently undergoing renovations, it's part of a Cultural Park project. In Novara, don't miss the impressive Basilica of San Gaudenzio with its iconic dome, and the ancient Palazzo Natta, which showcases rich architectural history.
Are there any natural parks or areas for outdoor activities around Biandrate?
Yes, the Lame del Sesia Natural Park is a significant natural oasis located between the provinces of Novara and Vercelli. It features diverse river environments with meanders, bodies of water, and forests, offering a stark contrast to the surrounding rice fields. It's an excellent spot for nature walks and observing local flora and fauna.
What kind of cycling routes are available near Biandrate?
The area around Biandrate offers a variety of cycling experiences. You can find routes for mountain biking, gravel biking, and general cycling. For example, there are moderate cycling tours like the 'Castello degli Avogadro – Sesia–Cavour Canal Junction loop' or easier options such as the 'Abbey of San Nazzaro loop'. You can explore more options on the Cycling around Biandrate guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Biandrate region?
Many attractions in the Biandrate region are considered family-friendly. The Castello di Proh, while under renovation, offers a historical context that can be engaging for families. The Basilica of San Gaudenzio and the Lame del Sesia Natural Park are also suitable for families, providing opportunities for exploration and enjoying nature.
What is the best time of year to visit Biandrate and its attractions?
The region around Biandrate, including the Province of Novara, is generally pleasant to visit during spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild and comfortable for exploring historical sites and natural parks. Summer can be warm, especially for outdoor activities, while winter offers a different, quieter charm, though some outdoor activities might be limited by weather conditions.
Can I find mountain biking trails near Biandrate?
Absolutely! There are several mountain biking trails in the vicinity of Biandrate. Routes like the 'Sesia River – Enoteca Regionale di Gattinara loop' offer moderate challenges for MTB enthusiasts. For more detailed information and route options, check out the MTB Trails around Biandrate guide.
What is the significance of the Castello di Proh?
The Castello di Proh holds significant medieval importance, having served as a 'caput plebs' until 1132. Its strategic location on the 'biandrina road' facilitated communication within the territories of the Counts of Biandrate. Today, it's being restored as a key part of a Cultural Park project in the Novara hills, aiming to offer educational and historical activities.
What makes the Basilica of San Gaudenzio in Novara unique?
The Basilica of San Gaudenzio is renowned for its dome, designed by Alessandro Antonelli. This architectural marvel is considered one of the most daring masonry structures ever built, constructed solely from bricks and lime. From its spire, visitors can enjoy extensive panoramic views of Novara and the surrounding Alps.
Are there any other castles to visit in the Novara area besides Castello di Proh?
Yes, in the city of Novara itself, you can explore the Visconti-Sforza Castle. Located on the southwestern edge of the old city center, this castle has a rich history dating back to the 13th century and now houses a museum complex and various associations.
What can I expect to see at the Lame del Sesia Natural Park?
At the Lame del Sesia Natural Park, you'll find a dynamic river environment characterized by 'lame' (blades), meanders, various bodies of water, and diverse forests. It's an important natural oasis that provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife, offering a peaceful escape from the agricultural landscape of the surrounding rice fields.
What kind of gravel biking opportunities are there near Biandrate?
Gravel biking is a popular activity around Biandrate, with routes catering to different skill levels. You can find challenging rides like the 'Novara and Ticino Park Loop' or moderate ones such as the 'Agriturismo La Biandrina – Cavaglio Climb loop'. For a comprehensive list of routes, refer to the Gravel biking around Biandrate guide.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Biandrate?
Visitors appreciate the rich historical context, especially the medieval heritage embodied by sites like the Castello di Proh. The architectural grandeur of the Basilica of San Gaudenzio and the serene natural beauty of the Lame del Sesia Natural Park are also highly praised, offering a blend of cultural and outdoor experiences.
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