Rivarolo Canavese

A medieval jewel on the outskirts of Turin 

In a strip of land between the Serra Moraine of Ivrea, the River Po, the Stura di Lanzo river and the Graian Alps lies Rivarolo Canavese. The historic centre, with its medieval layout, winds its way along Via Ivrea, among the most beautiful streets, thanks to its exquisite, 500-metre-long double arcades and porphyry paving. Historically, it was the core of the city, known as Via Maestra. Today, it is home to the St. Michele Arcangelo Parish and the 17th-century Church of the Most Holy Name of Jesus, the Town Hall and some fascinating period buildings, including Broglio, Toesca di Castellazzo and Palma di Cesnola. 

We recommend visiting the Castle of Malgrà, built between 1333 and 1336 by Count Martino di San Martino. Also of historical interest is the Church and Convent of St. Francis, the foundation of which can be traced back to the Saint. It was consecrated in 1299 and contains a fresco by Giovanni Martino Spanzotti depicting the Adoration of the Child. 

Don’t miss a trip to Piazza Litisetto to admire its beautiful, recently renovated terracotta portico. Known locally as Piassa dël Buro, the square started out in 1883 as a poultry market.