City of the Month

Alba

THE-HIDDEN-TREASURES-SEPARATOR

Situated in the southern part of the Italian region of Piedmont, Alba is considered to be the heart of the vineyard landscape Langhe – one of 55 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Italy. Once of a polygonal shape, Alba remains to have some of its fantastic medieval characteristics.

Alba Pompeia

With archeological findings dating back to the Neolithic and the Iron Age period, Alba’s history starts before the Roman civilization. In the first century, Alba has been home to Celtic and Ligurian tribe settlements. Under its Ancient name “Alba Pompeia”, the city was situated in a strategic location along the important route beween Acqui Terme and Turin.

City of hundred towers

Back in the days, Alba was known as the city of hundred towers. Once as a measure of defense, some towers are still well-maintained nowadays and are considered to be the central symbols of Alba.

The capital of white truffle

Being the home of “tartufi bianchi” (white truffles), Alba is also a perfect getaway for foodies. Launched more than 80 years ago, the International Alba White Truffle Fair takes place on weekends from the beginning of October to the end of November and is the place to be for truffle lovers.

In vino veritas

Located closeby to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the vineyard landscape of Monferrato as well as lovely towns such as Barolo, Asti or Barbaresco, Alba is furthermore a great place for wine lovers. Some of its most famous wines include Barbera, Dolcetto, Barolo and Moscato. What is more, every year in April, Alba hosts the famous Vinum wine festival.

Top 10 places to visit in Alba:

  • Palazzo Communale (Town Hall)
  • City Towers
  • Cathedral of San Lorenzo
  • Church of San Domenico
  • Federico Eusebio Civic Museum of Archaelogoy and Natural Sciences
  • Michele Ferrero Square
  • Church of San Giuseppe
  • Church of St John the Baptist
  • Palazzo Mostre e Congressi
  • Church of Santa Maria Maddalena