Villanova d’Asti, 33 km from Turin, is home to over 5,800 inhabitants. Its foundation dates back to the year 1248, but settlements have been present since Roman times. Near Poirino, in the Borgata Corveglia, Benedictine nuns settled around Lombard ruins known as the “corte vecchia,” creating a monastery – now a reception facility – recently restored to its ancient splendor. The surrounding territory of Villanova witnessed fierce conflicts between the French and the Spanish in the 17th century, but its powerful star-shaped walls always protected it.
Places of Interest
The Sanctuary of Madonna delle Grazie, in neoclassical style with a central plan and two side bodies, was built starting from 1860 on the site associated with the apparition of the Madonna to the 18-year-old villanovese Maria Baj in 1802 while she was pasturing cattle near a water source, later believed to be effective against malaria and cradle cap in children. A small chapel was erected on the source, still known today as the Fontanino.
The Sanctuary of Madonna di Serra, a building in Piedmontese Baroque style located on the territory of San Paolo Solbrito, with a Latin cross plan, a deep apse, and two side chapels.