Alessandria placed at the confluence of two rivers, the Tanaro and the Bormida, enjoys an important position on the streets of trade and communication between the Po Valley and the sea. Founded in the Middle Ages as a free commune, it owes its name to the Sienese Pope Alexander III and is historically known thanks to its strategic position as a bulwark and military stronghold, which is why over the centuries it has suffered vicissitudes and various dominations. From Federico Barbarossa to Napoleon, to reach the Savoy, the history of the city is dotted with episodes linked mostly ; to military art and that is why it preserves few traces of the past. Subject to wars and invasions, it boasts as a luster one of the greatest examples of military architecture, the 'Citadel', an imposing construction built in the first half of the eighteenth century by Savoy and still today military headquarters. Piazza della Libertà is the nerve center of its history; here we find eighteenth-century palaces of considerable importance that all gravitate around the Palazzo Municipale; among the countless testimonies we find the various Palazzo Ghilini or that of the Cuttica Cassine who still see today recall the splendors and lustres of the nobility à alexandrina. To visit is above all the Museum of the Battle of Marengo, which houses relics, weapons, documents and prints related to the battle of June 1800, won by Napoleon. Finally, in the province, the cities of Acqui Terme, a spa and wellness center already active in Roman times, Ovada, known for the food and wine of Alto Monferrato, a blazon of Piedmontese cuisine and Casale Monferrato, remembered for events ranging from the florist to the & rsquo; food and wine.
Set in the charming Piedmont countryside, Relais I Castagnoni is a B&B guesthouse in the heart of Rosignano. Originally a convent, now I Castagnoni is the summer residence of a family who has been living there for generations. The old convent has been renovated, with elegantly designed bedrooms, a kitchenette and a breakfast room. All the rooms of the property lead to outdoor gardens where Continental lunches are served in the mornings. The staffs speak Italian, French and English. All five rooms are fitted with antique furniture, bathroom and shower, hairdryer, minibar, telephone, satellite TV, and pay-per-view channels. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property and is free of charge. On the weekends and on request, guests are treated to meals cooked by the family. There is also a charming shop that sells local products and gifts. Guests have access to an outdoor pool, free sauna, Turkish bath and wellness centre. Visitors can tour the area and can take part in the local grape harvest or dine on delicious traditional regional dishes. Other activities include tennis, horse riding and cycling. I Castagnoni Relais offers free parking, with no reservation required. I Castagnoni is situated in the Po Valley and about 20 minutes drive from the town of Casale Monferrato. More informations at: www.icastagnoni.it
