Novi Ligure - Main Sights

Main Sights

In the 17th and 18th centuries Novi Ligure was a renowned resort for the rich Genoese families, as showed by the presence of numerous noble palaces in the historical center of the city, ofter decorated with frescoes facades. These include Palazzo Negroni, Palazzo Durazzo and others. The most important palace is Palazzo Delle Piane (Delle Piane family), situated in the historic Piazza Delle Piane.

The Pieve of Santa Maria, on the road for Cassano, is the most ancient religious building (12th century). It has a nave with two aisles, and apses from the original edifice. In the interior is a fresco (1474) by Manfredino Boxilio, portraying the then sovereign of Novi, Oriana di Campofregoso and saints.

The Oratory of St. Madeleine houses a massive Calvary composed of 21 wooden statues and two natural-size horses, as well as a 8-statuettes terracotta Complaint of Christ. Both are from Renaissance.

Novi has retained part of its walls, erected in 1447 and partly demolished in the 19th century, together with the tower of the Castle. The subterraneans can be visited in summer.

The Museo dei Campionissimi is a museum devoted to the two famous cyclists Costante Girardengo and Fausto Coppi and the bicycle history in general.

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