Biella​

By Dion Protani
Latest update: 14 March 2022
The city of Biella is the capital city of the Province of Biella with a population of 43,987 inhabitants.

Standing at an elevation of 420 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 47 km² and lies 70 kilometres north east of Turin, the regional capital of Piedmont.

An important centre for the wool and textile trades, Biella is situated on the banks of the River Cervo, within striking distance of the Alps and the nearby Sacro Monte di Oropo sanctuary.
The wool trade is partially responsible for the city's overall layout; split into a lower and upper town, the lower area is the busiest with the majority of shops and restaurants, while the upper city, called Piazzo, is where the original wool merchants built their more grandiose homes. 

The main area of interest in the lower part of Biella is around Piazza Duomo. The wide open square is home to Biella Cathedral, from where you can also see the impressive Bell Tower. Close by and tucked away in a slightly strange position, hemmed in to a side street, is the Biella Baptistery. From the Baptistery it's just a few more paces to reach the city's busiest shopping street: Via Italia. 

Piazzo - the upper side of the city, can be reached via a funicular railway that saves a steep walk up the hill. The funicular station is situated a 5 minute walk from Piazza Duomo from where you can see the direction you need to follow to reach it. Once in Piazzo you'll find a pretty main square with porticoed edges concealing a variety of shops and bars within.

​Also, if you head north from the main piazza (turning right from where you arrived on the main street after taking the funicular), towards the archway, you'll come to a bridge from where you can get some great views of the whole city. 

​Among the places of interest nearby are the medieval borgo of Ricetti di Candelo, the UNESCO World Heritage town of Ivrea and the aforementioned Sacro Monte di Oropa. 
Related links
Biella bullet-points
History:

  • Ancient Origins: Biella's roots trace back to Roman times, with archaeological evidence highlighting its early settlements.
  • Medieval Prosperity: Flourishing during the Middle Ages, Biella gained prominence as a wool production hub due to its strategic Alpine location.
  • Textile Legacy: Renowned for its textile industry, Biella's craftsmanship and wool products earned international acclaim.

Tourist Information:

  • Medieval Charms: Explore Biella's well-preserved medieval town center with cobblestone streets, picturesque piazzas, and elegant palaces.
  • Artisanal Treasures: Discover artisan workshops and boutiques offering high-quality textiles, showcasing the town's rich tradition.
  • Culinary Delights: Relish Piedmontese cuisine in local cafes and restaurants, savoring flavors that have stood the test of time.
  • Oropa Sanctuary: Visit the awe-inspiring Oropa Sanctuary, set against the stunning backdrop of the Alps, known for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance.
  • UNESCO Gem: The Sacro Monte of Oropa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features intricate chapels depicting scenes from Virgin Mary's life.

Travel Information:

  • Accessible Airports: Turin-Caselle Airport, around 70 kilometers away, serves as the nearest major airport for international travelers.
  • Railway Connections: Biella San Paolo train station connects the town to Turin, Milan, and beyond, offering convenient rail travel options.
  • Exploring on Foot: Biella's compact size makes it perfect for leisurely walks through its historic streets and charming neighborhoods.
  • Nature Excursions: Venture into the Biellese Alps for outdoor pursuits like hiking, skiing, and enjoying the breathtaking alpine landscapes.
  • Local Transportation: Buses and taxis provide easy access to nearby attractions, while renting a car offers flexibility for day trips.
Comune di Biella
Province: Biella

Region: Piedmont

Population: 42,943​ (source: ISTAT 1 January 2022)

Size: 47 km²

Elevation: 420 metres

Highlights: Biella Cathedral, Piazzo, Baptistery, Bell Tower

​Close by: Ricetto di Candelo, Sacro Monte di Oropa, Ivrea

Recommended accommodation: Agora' Palace Hotel

Biella  Travel

Biella's main train station is called Stazione San Paolo; it's located 2 kilometres from Piazza Duomo, a walk of around 23 minutes or a 7 minute bus ride using any of the 360, 370 or 380 bus routes. Trains run from Biella to nearby Santhià where you change to continue on to Turin (Porta Nuova Station), the whole journey taking an hour and a half. Heading east you can reach Novara in 53 minutes without changing and from there you can continue on to Milan which is another 40 minutes away.

The most convenient airport for Biella is Turin Airport which is a one hour drive away (86 km). Equally viable is Milan Malpensa Airport at an hour and 4 minutes, a distance of 95 kilometres, or even Milan Linate Airport (1 hour 22 minutes/118 km).
​Public transport: ​train station 2 km from centre, buses, funicular

By train: ​Novara - 53 minutes, Turin - 1 hour 30 minutes (1 change)
By car: ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Vercelli - 45 mins (42 km), Novara - 52 mins (57 km)

Fly to: ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Turin Airport - one hour by car (86 km)

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