Asti

The Palazzo Malabayla, an impressive testament to Asti's noble history, is located in the heart of the city. It was once the residence of the influential Malabayla family, who played a significant role in Asti's political and economic development over centuries. The palace's origins date back to the Middle Ages, but its current appearance is largely due to renovations from the 17th and 18th centuries, which gave it an elegant Baroque facade.As you observe the palace, you will recognize the architectural finesse reflected in the details of its window frames and imposing portal. Although most of the palace is privately used, you can appreciate the majestic presence of this historic building from the outside. The Palazzo Malabayla is an excellent example of the magnificent city palaces that once adorned Asti and bore witness to the wealth of its merchant families.Our Tip: For the best perspective of the Palazzo Malabayla's facade, a walk through Via Malabayla is recommended. Pay attention to the delicate stucco work and the symmetry of the window rows. A morning visit often provides the best light for photos, as the sun optimally illuminates the facade's details. You can truly feel Asti's history here.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Asti is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture in Piedmont and one of the largest churches in the region. Its history dates back to the 5th century, with the current structure largely from the 13th and 14th centuries, built upon the foundations of a Romanesque predecessor church. You will be impressed by the imposing size and simple elegance of the three-aisled basilica. Inside, splendid frescoes from various eras await you, including 18th-century works adorning the vaults, and a crypt preserving older structural elements. Pay attention to the ornate capitals and the colorful stained-glass windows that filter the light in a unique way. Our Tip: It's best to visit the Cathedral on a weekday morning to fully appreciate the tranquility and architectural details undisturbed. For a good exterior shot, position yourself on Piazza Cattedrale to capture the entire facade.

The Museo Diocesano San Giovanni in Asti is located in the historic premises of the former Church of San Giovanni, directly next to the Cathedral. This location underscores its central role in the city's religious history. Here you'll discover a comprehensive collection of sacred art and artifacts that trace the development of the Diocese of Asti from the Middle Ages to modern times. The exhibition includes valuable paintings, sculptures, liturgical objects and vestments, often originating from the region's churches. A special highlight is the well-preserved 10th-century crypt, located beneath the church and offering fascinating insights into early Christian and Romanesque architecture. Here you can literally feel the layers of history beneath your feet. Our Tip: Take your time to appreciate the details of the goldsmith work and the finely crafted embroideries of the paraments. To fully appreciate the tranquility of the exhibits, it's best to visit the museum on weekday mornings to avoid the largest crowds.

The Palazzo Mazzetti in Asti is a significant example of Piedmontese Baroque architecture and today houses the Pinacoteca Civica, the municipal art gallery. Originally built in the 18th century for the noble Mazzetti family, the palace features an impressive facade and richly decorated interiors. Here you experience the original splendor of an aristocratic residence, captivating with its frescoes and stucco work. The art collection spans works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, with a focus on artists from Asti and Piedmont. You will find paintings, sculptures, and graphic works here, offering a comprehensive insight into regional art history. The works by local masters deserve special attention. As you tour the various halls, you'll discover not only the artworks but also the preserved historic rooms of the palace itself, often with original furnishings or decorations. This creates an immersive experience that connects art and architecture. Our Tip: For a more peaceful visit, it is advisable to visit the Palazzo on a weekday morning. Pay particular attention to the details of the ceiling frescoes in the main halls; they are often as impressive as the exhibited artworks and offer excellent photo opportunities.

The Palazzo Ottolenghi in Asti is an outstanding example of Piedmontese Baroque architecture. It was designed and built between 1751 and 1754 by the renowned architect Benedetto Alfieri for the noble Ottolenghi family. You'll see an elegant facade that harmoniously blends into the cityscape. Particularly noteworthy are the courtyard, which offers a tranquil atmosphere, and the imposing grand staircase inside, which is typical of Alfieri's style and reflects the family's prosperity. Today, the Palazzo houses the Istituto Statale di Istruzione Superiore 'Quintino Sella', a school. This means that access to the interior spaces is often restricted to certain areas or times, especially during school hours. The architecture is an important testament to Baroque building art in Piedmont. For an unobstructed view of the facade and courtyard, a visit outside school hours is recommended, ideally on weekends or in the early morning. A good photo spot to capture the entire width of the facade is from the opposite side of the street.