Castelnuovo Bormida – Riverside Setting, Churches and July Festivals

Castelnuovo Bormida lies on the right bank of the Bormida River, on the boundary between Monferrato and the Alessandria–Tortona plain. Here, you will find a clearly defined riverside setting where two distinct landscapes meet.

Churches with Art-Historical Details

An important place for cultural discoveries is the Chiesa Parrocchiale dei Santi Quirico e Giulitta. It was expanded between the late 17th century and the first half of the 18th century, starting from a Romanesque core. Inside is a painting from the Lombard school of the 17th century depicting Saint Pius V and the Miracle of the Crucifix. The church also includes the Chapel of San Feliciano, decorated with precious 17th-century marble inlays. Architecture, painting and ornamental craftsmanship are closely interconnected here.

Concrete traces of the town’s history can also be found beyond this church. The Chiesa di San Rocco is a votive building erected by the local community in 1631 after a plague epidemic. The Ex Chiesa del SS. Rosario was built in the 16th century as a chapel within the castle walls; its original entrance door bears the year 1584. At the same time, it is a Romanesque building at the entrance to Castelnuovo Bormida from the direction of Cassine.

History and Poplar Culture

The town’s history also includes the Battle of Castelnuovo Bormida. It was fought near the town centre and a temporary bridge over the Bormida River. This bridge had been built under the protection of the castle’s fortifications.

The Museo del Pioppo in Castelnuovo Bormida is dedicated to the cultivation and processing of poplars. Both activities are considered a fundamental part of the material culture of the Castelnuovo Bormida area.

Festivals and Local Cuisine

The Partita scacchi viventi is a traditional performance featuring living figures in medieval costumes and takes place in Castelnuovo Bormida every year on the third Saturday in July. On the third Sunday in July, it is followed by the Festa patronale di San Quirico e Santa Giulitta, held in honour of Castelnuovo Bormida’s patron saints.

At the Sagra dei Rabaton, visitors can enjoy typical dishes at a food stall from 7:30 p.m. The 7:30 p.m. start makes this culinary event an evening appointment.

Walking and Cycling Route

The Sentiero degli amorosi sensi leads to La Madonnina, a rural votive chapel dedicated to Mary. For cycle tourists, the second stage of the Torino–Genova crossing leads to Castelnuovo Bormida after crossing the Bormida River.

Other Places in the Same Area

Terruggia, Garbagna, Carbonara Scrivia, Bandita, Morano Sul Po, Cantalupo Ligure, Arquata Scrivia and Ponzano Monferrato

For the overview of the wider travel area: Alessandria.