Ricetto  di  Candelo​

Latest page update: 26 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
​The town of Ricetto di Candelo is situated within the Province of Biella and has a population of around 7,500 residents.

It stands at an elevation of 340 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include Biella, Sacro Monte di Oropa, Ivrea, Vercelli and Novara. 

What People Ask About Ricetto di Candelo

Is Ricetto di Candelo worth visiting?
Yes, Ricetto di Candelo is a unique medieval fortified village near Biella, known for its well-preserved walls, cobbled lanes, and traditional stone buildings. It is listed among the “Borghi più belli d’Italia”.
What can you do in Ricetto di Candelo?
You can walk through the medieval lanes, visit artisan workshops and small museums, and attend local festivals. The site is often used for exhibitions and events that highlight regional crafts and food.
How do you get to Ricetto di Candelo?
Ricetto di Candelo is around 6 km from Biella and can be reached by car or local bus. Biella has a train station with regional connections to Turin and Milan via Santhià.
What is Ricetto di Candelo known for?
Ricetto di Candelo is known for its 13th-century fortified structure built by local farmers to store goods and protect the community. It is one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in Italy.
When is the best time to visit Ricetto di Candelo?
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, especially during local festivals like Candelo in Fiore or the medieval fair. These events showcase the historic setting at its most lively.
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Discover

Discover Ricetto di Candelo
Ricetto di Candelo, located in the Piedmont region, is a well-preserved medieval village set at an elevation of 300 metres, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past. The village is renowned for its historical charm, with its labyrinth of narrow streets, cobbled pathways, and traditional stone buildings. The most striking feature of Ricetto di Candelo is its fortified structure, originally built as a place of refuge during medieval times. The village’s peaceful atmosphere and rich heritage make it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.
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One of the village's most notable landmarks is the Ricetto, a medieval fortified warehouse complex that dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can explore the well-preserved towers, walls, and courtyards, which offer insight into the village’s defensive past. The surrounding countryside also offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking and cycling, with scenic views of the nearby hills and vineyards. Ricetto di Candelo is easily accessible by car, with Biella located about 12 kilometres away. The nearest train station is Candelo Railway Station, providing connections to Biella and other regional destinations, while Turin Airport is approximately 100 kilometres from the village.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Ricetto di Candelo
  • Ricetto Walls and Towers form the fortified boundary of this medieval village enclosure, originally built in the 13th and 14th centuries. Constructed with river stones and red bricks, the walls enclose a compact grid of narrow lanes and storerooms. The site is remarkably well preserved and is one of the best examples of a medieval ricetto in Piedmont.
  • Internal Courtyards and Cobbled Streets run between the rustic stone buildings once used for storing grain, tools, and wine. Many of these spaces have been repurposed as craft shops, small exhibition spaces, or wine cellars. Walking through the ricetto offers a direct experience of medieval rural architecture.
  • Church of Santa Maria stands just outside the fortified enclosure and dates back to the medieval period, though it has undergone later modifications. The church features a modest exterior and a simple nave, with occasional religious services and local events. It forms part of the historical setting of the complex.
  • Cultural Events and Markets are held throughout the year inside the ricetto, including medieval fairs, artisan markets, and seasonal festivals. These events bring the narrow streets to life and often include costumed performers, food stalls, and live music. The village is especially popular during autumn and spring weekends.
  • Panoramic Walks around Candelo begin near the ricetto and lead into the surrounding countryside and vineyards. Signposted routes include views of the Biellese Alps, small chapels, and traditional stone farmhouses. The trails are suitable for casual walkers and connect with nearby villages and natural areas.
Ricetto di Candelo Tours and Activities
Ricetto - località di Candelo
Comune: Candelo

Province: Biella

Region: Piedmont

Elevation: ​​​340 metres

​Close by: Biella, Sacro Monte di Oropa, Ivrea, Vercelli, Novara

Recommended accommodation: Agora' Palace Hotel (7 km)
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)

Listing headline: La Pompei Medievale del Biellese (The Medieval Pompeii of the Biellese Alps)

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