Discover Rivanazzano: Thermal Baths, History and Trails

Rivanazzano between history and thermal springs

The parish church of San Germano has been documented as a pleban church since the 13th century; the origins of the present building date back to the 17th century. The Oratorio della Santissima Trinità adds neoclassical architecture to the historic character of the town; its history can be traced back as far as the end of the 16th century. The Palazzo Comunale also has a distinctive design: the Gothic building features pointed-arch arcades and a clock tower.

The pentagonal tower of Rivanazzano, dating from the 14th or 15th century, stands in Piazza Cornaggia. Further traces of history are concentrated in the Castello di Nazzano. The castle was built by the Malaspina around the year 1000. Around 1360, Gian Galeazzo Visconti had the Castello strengthened because of its strategic location. From the hill on which it stands, on clear and windy days the view extends from the Cottian Alps to Monte Rosa.

Thermal springs and cultural sites

The Terme di Rivanazzano were established in 1913 after natural springs were discovered in the San Francesco area. The creation of the thermal baths is therefore one of the defining historical themes of the town. Visitors to Rivanazzano can combine this focus with architecture and local history, rather than limiting their trip to just one type of experience.

The Teatro Comunale was built in the second half of the 19th century by the Società Operaia e Contadina di Mutuo Soccorso as a multipurpose hall. After seven years of restoration, it was handed over to the residents of Rivanazzano in 2008. The open-air museum “i libri di ferro” comprises signs for commercial businesses designed by artists from the region. This museum was presented during a guided tour on 24 September 2023.

Green spaces and the Voghera–Varzi Greenway

For walks, Parco Brugnatelli offers a clearly defined landscape route: it stretches behind the town hall along the Staffora River to nearby Salice. A second option for outdoor activity is the Voghera–Varzi Greenway. The paved cycling and walking path is 33 kilometres long, follows its own dedicated route and has a gentle incline.

The section of the Voghera–Varzi Greenway from the municipality of Retorbido to the municipality of Rivanazzano Terme passes through cultivated agricultural land. The plain is covered by grain fields, while vineyards grow on the hillsides; wine has been produced there for over 2,000 years. The Greenway is suitable for peaceful family walks, running and marathon training away from cars and heavily trafficked roads. The route follows its own safe, dedicated track.

Places in the surrounding area

The surrounding area of Rivanazzano is home to Castello Visconteo, a castle. Also located there are Palazzo Gounela, Dattili Palace and Palazzo Guidobono; all three are palaces. For a quieter break, there are the Giardini Piazza Castello, Giardini Sandro Pertini and Giardini Piazza San Bovo. These three places are gardens in the area around Rivanazzano. Parco Locomotiva is a park there.

When choosing a hotel for Rivanazzano, you can base your personal priorities on these specific destinations. If you are primarily interested in religious buildings, castles, palaces and the Teatro Comunale, the town’s historic side takes centre stage. The Terme di Rivanazzano offer a different focus, while Parco Brugnatelli and the Voghera–Varzi Greenway are suited to walks, runs and cycling. This makes it possible to align your accommodation choice with your planned itinerary without confusing the town’s different themes.

More destinations: Settimo, Pavia, Palestro, Montesegale, Marcignago, Calvignano, Menconico, Ottobiano

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