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Welcome to the unspoilt heart of the Staffora Valley, where time seems to stand still to reveal a secret jewel: Bagnaria. This ancient medieval village, shrouded in evocative tranquillity and embraced by breathtaking scenery, encloses a thousand-year history within its grey stone walls.
Set like a jewel hidden in the mountains of the Staffora Valley, Bagnaria stands as a charming medieval village that guards centuries-old secrets and a timeless aura of beauty. Often overlooked by those travelling along the provincial road to Varzi, this little treasure is an invitation to take a journey through the history, culture and lush nature of Lombardy.
Visitors who detour to its historic centre are confronted with an enchanting panorama: narrow cobbled streets and grey stone houses tell ancient stories, while the succession of winding alleys offers a picturesque journey through time. The walls of this medieval village exude the atmosphere of bygone eras, bearing witness to the ancient power and history of the noble families that ruled its destinies.
The beauty of Bagnaria is not only in its architecture or cobbled streets, but also in its deep ties with the land that surrounds it. It is part of the National Association of ‘Cherry Towns‘, and every year, in the first week of June, it celebrates the sweetness of this fruit with joy and fervour, offering visitors a unique culinary experience with the famous cherry risotto and the delicious local wine.
But Bagnaria does not stop there in its celebration of the fruits of the earth. Its identity is also expressed in the traditional Apple Day, celebrated with joy and enthusiasm on the second Sunday in October. This event is an ode to the apple, a fruit that encapsulates the flavours and aromas of authenticity, uniting the community in a festival that celebrates the agricultural roots and generosity of the land. And while the history of Bagnaria is reflected in the walls of its ancient castle, part of which collapsed due to an earthquake in 1828 while the remaining part was recovered by the municipal administration with a conservative restoration in 2021, the Church of St Bartholomew the Apostle stands majestically, offering visitors an architectural masterpiece with its Romanesque façade and interior decorations that enchant the soul.
This charming village is more than a collection of houses and streets. It is a place where the past is intertwined with the present, where nature blends with history, and where the community welcomes visitors with warmth and authenticity, offering them an unforgettable experience in the heart of Lombardy. Bagnaria, with its timeless beauty and unique identity, is bound to capture the hearts of anyone lucky enough to discover it.
