Novara Province
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Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The Novara Province occupies a total geographical area of 1,340 square kilometres including the provincial capital: Novara.
Within the province there are 88 provincial towns, which contain a total population of around 369 thousand inhabitants. Among the highlights of the province are Lake Orta with its jewels such Isola San Giulio, the lakeside town of Orta San Giulio and lovely Pella. |
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Novara Province • Piedmont • Northern Italy
The province of Novara is located in the northeastern part of the Piedmont region, bordered by the Lombardy region to the east and the Swiss canton of Ticino to the north. This area is known for its flat, fertile plains, which are perfect for agriculture, particularly rice cultivation, and its proximity to the picturesque Lake Maggiore. Novara combines rich agricultural landscapes with a variety of historical and cultural attractions, offering a unique blend of rural charm and urban history.
Novara, the provincial capital, is a city with a long history, dating back to Roman times. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the striking Basilica of San Gaudenzio, with its impressive dome designed by the famous architect Alessandro Antonelli, and the historic Broletto, a medieval town hall. The city's Piazza delle Erbe is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a lively atmosphere with markets, cafés, and charming streets.
The province is also known for its proximity to the Ticino River and the many natural reserves in the surrounding area, such as the Valle del Ticino Natural Park, which provides a peaceful setting for nature walks, birdwatching, and outdoor activities. The town of Arona, located on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, as well as attractions such as the San Carlo Borromeo statue, which is one of the tallest statues in Europe. The province is also home to several small towns and villages, each with its own history and charm, such as Gozzano, known for its beautiful villas, and Oleggio, with its medieval structures and peaceful countryside. With its mix of historical sites, natural beauty, and rural landscapes, Novara offers a varied and enriching experience for visitors to Piedmont.
Novara, the provincial capital, is a city with a long history, dating back to Roman times. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the striking Basilica of San Gaudenzio, with its impressive dome designed by the famous architect Alessandro Antonelli, and the historic Broletto, a medieval town hall. The city's Piazza delle Erbe is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a lively atmosphere with markets, cafés, and charming streets.
The province is also known for its proximity to the Ticino River and the many natural reserves in the surrounding area, such as the Valle del Ticino Natural Park, which provides a peaceful setting for nature walks, birdwatching, and outdoor activities. The town of Arona, located on the southern shore of Lake Maggiore, offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, as well as attractions such as the San Carlo Borromeo statue, which is one of the tallest statues in Europe. The province is also home to several small towns and villages, each with its own history and charm, such as Gozzano, known for its beautiful villas, and Oleggio, with its medieval structures and peaceful countryside. With its mix of historical sites, natural beauty, and rural landscapes, Novara offers a varied and enriching experience for visitors to Piedmont.
Highlights
- Novara City: The capital city of the province, Novara, boasts a charming historic center with medieval architecture, elegant squares, and ancient churches. Don't miss the impressive Basilica of San Gaudenzio with its towering dome and stunning frescoes.
- Sacro Monte di Orta: Located near Lake Orta, this UNESCO World Heritage site features a series of chapels adorned with religious frescoes set amidst a beautiful natural landscape.
- Lake Maggiore: While only a small part of Lake Maggiore is within the province's borders, it offers stunning views, boat trips to the Borromean Islands, and water sports activities.
- Rice Fields: The Novara area is renowned for its rice production, and you can explore the vast rice fields that create a unique and picturesque landscape.
- Gattinara Wine Region: Novara is part of the Gattinara wine region, known for producing high-quality Nebbiolo wines. Wine enthusiasts can visit local vineyards and cellars for tastings.
- Historic Villages: The province is dotted with charming villages such as Borgomanero, Oleggio, and Arona, where you can experience traditional Italian life and architecture.
- Gastronomy: Novara is known for its delicious local cuisine, featuring dishes like risotto, polenta, and paniscia (a traditional rice and bean dish). Be sure to try the local sweets, such as novarese biscuits and amaretti.
- Natural Parks: The province is home to several natural parks, including Parco Naturale del Lagoni di Mercurago, offering opportunities for hiking and nature walks.
Provincia di Novara
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Neighbouring region: Lombardy
