Polonghera: Churches, Castle History and Nature along the Varaita

Polonghera amid Sacred Buildings, Local History and River Nature

Polonghera combines sacred buildings, local history, nature observation and local festivals.

Castle and Churches as Historical Points of Reference

Polonghera Castle is known as a “castello di pianura”. It was built at a strategic point where salt from the Nice area was transported to Turin and Savoy. The salt route therefore provides a specific historical link to the castle.

The Chiesa di Santa Maria di Codevilla already existed in the 10th century and was rebuilt between 1838 and 1841 based on a design by the architect Giuseppe Talucchi. The Chiesa di San Pietro in Vincoli was built in 1489 on the site of a chapel of the Holy Sepulchre. Inside, it has ceiling medallions depicting saints and biblical figures. For those interested in culture, there are several chronological points of reference here: the first mention in the 10th century and the rebuilding in the 19th century.

Sanctuary, Museum and Townscape

Construction of the present-day Santuario della Madonna del Pilone began in 1714 following a vow made by the population during an outbreak of a serious cattle disease. The main altar of this sanctuary was completely rebuilt by Giovan Battista Bernero in 1794. The Museo del Soldatino e del figurino storico offers another cultural aspect: in three halls, it displays more than 3,000 reproductions. At the Santuario, the start of construction and the complete rebuilding of the main altar took place in different historical phases.

The Palazzo dei Conti Fossati is also part of the town’s architectural character. For more than a century, it has housed Polonghera’s municipal administration and primary school. The town tower offers panoramic views over the entire town.

Nature along the Torrente Varaita

The Percorso natura Martinetto Teresa nature trail leads from the town centre through cultivated fields to the area around the Torrente Varaita, where herons and storks can be observed. A woodland path on this Percorso natura Martinetto Teresa also leads to the Santuario della Beata Vergine del Pilone and its garden with pergolas. For a walk, the town centre, cultivated fields and the area around the Torrente Varaita therefore follow one another.

The Confluenza del Varaita nature reserve is also part of the natural area. It covers around 170 hectares and lies partly within the municipality of Polonghera. At around 170 hectares, this figure describes the size of the nature reserve, which also includes the municipality of Polonghera. Those wishing to focus their stay on landscapes and observation will find a clear second focal point here alongside the churches, castle and museum.

Local Festivals and Culinary Connections

The Festa della Beata Vergine del Pilone takes place on the second Sunday in September. The Sagra dell’Agnolotto e del Canestrello di Polonghera was organised by the Pro Loco and reached its 17th edition. The festival takes place in September; the sagra is associated with the Pro Loco and its 17th edition.

More Destinations for Planning

Ceresole Alba, Vicoforte, Trinità, Isasca, Caraglio, Vinadio, Valpone and Lesegno

For the higher-level travel overview: Cuneo.