Saluzzo counts about 17.000 inhabitants and is a charming city located 340 masml , where the Monviso valleys open on a plain of orchards. It is the capital of an ancient marquisate which lasted four centuries and it conserves a urban architecture which dates to 1400. The historical centre is spread around the hill and in the past it was enclosed by a double ring of walls. Today Saluzzo is one of the most exclusive centre for the furniture and the art of restoration it can boast of a century wood and iron processing tradition. Its countryside is famous for the fruit production. Many famous people were born here: the writer Silvio Pellico; the founder of the modern typography, Giovanni Battista Bodoni; the lutist Gioffredo Cappa; the historian Goffredo Casalis; the mathematician Corrado Segre and the general Carlo Alberto Dalla Chiesa.
What to see
The Castiglia was the fortress of the marquises of Saluzzo, it was built between 1270 and 1286. Since 2006 it has been restored: its wide locals host the historical archive, the museum and many cultural and artistic activities. Casa Cavassa is the Local Museum of Saluzzo, one of the symbol of the Renaissance of the city, it was the house of Galeazzo Cavassa and his son, they were members of a noble family from Carmagnola. Casa Pellico is a medieval building located just outside the walls built in 1280, near the ancient porta dei Mondagli. In the small apartment on the first floor, was born the writer Silvio Pellico in 1789. Today the museum is open to the public.
In May 2005 the Ancient Municipal Palace has been opened to the public after many restoration works. At the first floor there is the honour hall, ancient seat of the Marquisate Congregation. In 2013 was opened the picture gallery dedicated to Matteo Olivero. The tower was built in 1462, which is 48 metres high and it is the symbol of the power and of the independence of the city. From the loggia under the spire, which you can reach after a staircase of 130 steps, you can enjoy a beautiful view on the Alps.
Eat & Drink
The food offer of Saluzzo is very wide thanks to the fresh products of the tradition of this area. The piedmontese cattle guarantee quality meats and even the white meat is very good. In Saluzzo is bred the White Hen of Saluzzo, awarded with the Slow Food recognition. Among the cheeses you can find Castelmagno, Tumin de Mel, Nostrale, and Toma d’Elva, but the best local products are fruits, in particular peaches, apricots and plums (ramassin), apples, pears and kiwi. The agricultural products are protagonists of the “women market” (el mercà d’le fômne) which is held every Saturday. Many confectioneries propose Saluzzesi al Rhum pralines and hazelnut and chocolate sweets. The most important wines are the Colline Saluzzesi Aoc, the Pelaverga and the Quagliano. Do not forget the Chateau d’Yquem Lur-saluces, produced in the prestigious area of Sauternes.
What’s on
- MercAntico: 10th March, 22nd April, May and June (variable dates), 6th October, 10th November 2019
- Mostra di Arredamento: September
- Uvernada: October
