Pollenzo  Estate​

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 9 January 2024
​The Pollenzo Estate is situated in the Province of Cuneo, close to the town of Bra. 

Built in the 12th century, it has been inscribed by UNESCO as one of their World Heritage Sites since 1997 under the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy heading.  Places of interest nearby include Cherasco, La Morra, Barolo, Barbaresco and Alba.
Related links
Profile
The Pollenzo Estate, also known as Tenuta di Pollenzo, is a historic estate located in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. Situated near the town of Bra, the estate is steeped in history and is recognized for its culinary and agricultural significance.
History
​The Pollenzo Estate dates back to ancient Roman times when it was originally established as a staging post along the Via Augusta, an important Roman road. Over the centuries, the estate changed hands and was owned by various noble families.

In the 19th century, King Carlo Alberto of Savoy purchased the estate and commissioned the renowned architect Ernesto Melano to design the neoclassical Pollenzo complex, which includes the grand Pollenzo Castle (Castello di Pollenzo) and the nearby University of Gastronomic Sciences. The estate became a center for agricultural research and viticulture, contributing to the development of the Piedmont region's food and wine culture.
Key features and nearby attractions
  • Historical Significance: The estate's roots in ancient Roman times and its association with the House of Savoy offer a fascinating glimpse into Piedmont's historical past.
  • Pollenzo Castle: The neoclassical Pollenzo Castle, with its elegant facade and well-preserved interiors, is an architectural gem worth exploring.
  • University of Gastronomic Sciences: The university, founded by the Slow Food movement, offers courses and research opportunities related to food culture and sustainable agriculture.
  • Culinary Delights: Visitors can enjoy exceptional Piedmontese cuisine at the estate's restaurants, which often feature locally sourced and traditional dishes.
  • Wine Tasting: Piedmont is renowned for its wines, and the estate provides opportunities to taste and learn about the region's esteemed vintages.
  • Farm-to-Table Experiences: The estate's agricultural activities and farm-to-table initiatives offer a chance to engage with sustainable farming practices.
  • Cultural Events: The estate hosts cultural events, food festivals, and wine tastings throughout the year, adding to the overall experience.
  • Accessibility: The Pollenzo Estate is easily accessible from nearby towns and cities, making it a convenient destination for day trips.
Tenuta di Pollenzo
Comune: Bra

Province: Cuneo

Region: Piedmont

​Built: 12th century

​​​​Architectural style: Neoclassical

Close by: Cherasco, La Morra, Barolo, Barbaresco, Alba, Neive

Recommended accommodation: Hotel ​Cavalieri (7 km)
UNESCO World Heritage Site

Residences of the Royal House of Savoy

​Year: 1997

Pollenzo  Estate​​  Gallery

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via my Italy Review Blog for which you'll find links below to the Facebook and Twitter pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.