Castagnito between Plain, Views and Church Art

Castagnito between Plain and Hills

Castagnito encompasses two clearly distinct landscapes: a plain and a hill system. In parts of the area, vineyards, orchards and hazelnut groves shape the landscape.

The plain in southeastern Castagnito consists of Middle Pleistocene and recent alluvial deposits transported by the Tanaro River. Alluvial deposits are formed by the transport of water and the subsequent deposition of sediments. The hill above the town hall forms the elevated counterpart to the southeastern plain.

Viewpoints and Trails

Castelverde is an equipped viewpoint on the hill above Castagnito’s town hall. A short path leads from Castagnito town hall to the site; this option is 0.4 km long and has an elevation gain of 30 m. The starting point is at the town hall, and the destination is on the hill.

The section of the Sentiero dell’Acino that passes through Castagnito is considered its most scenic part and offers views of the hills of the Astigiano area and as far as the Langhe. The Sentiero dell’Acino also offers a detour to the San Quirico viewpoint. The area from Costa through Serra to Soarme is suitable for relaxed outings.

Churches, Art and Historical Traces

The Parrocchiale di San Giovanni Battista houses a painting attributed to Moncalvo, although it probably came from his daughter, Orsola Maddalena Caccia.

The Chiesa di Santo Spirito was built according to a design by Giovanni Carelli, who came from Castagnito. The same church also contains an altarpiece depicting the Descent of the Holy Spirit; the artist is unknown, and the work is dated 1658.

Today’s Cappella di San Bernardo was built in 1736 according to a design by the lawyer Giovanni Carelli, who came from Castagnito. The Madonna delle Campagne was built in its present form in 1884 and has an iron bell tower. The years 1658, 1736 and 1884 refer to different works or building forms.

The former castle of Castagnito was called “Castel Verde” and is associated with a land sale from 1074.

Fruit, Vegetables and Wines

Castagnito offers visitors typical, high-quality fruit and vegetable products. Castagnito is also associated with excellent wines, including the full range of the finest Roero wines.

Ritual and Photo Exhibition

On the eve of Easter, the ritual “Suonare le conchiglie” is held every year in Castagnito. For one day, shells replace the sound of the church bells. The permanent photo exhibition on the “Percorso dell’Acqua” is located in the monumental hall beneath Castagnito town hall. The ritual is limited to one day, whereas the exhibition is permanent.

More Destinations

San Bernardino, Rodello, Bene Vagienna, Dogliani, Trinità, Cossano Belbo, Cissone, Scaletta Uzzone

For the higher-level travel overview: Cuneo.