Viarigi, the most fascinating “lookout” of the Low Monferrato.
Landscape.
Viarigi rises in the Low Monferrato.
The town covers an area of 13.62 km² and has a population of about 900 inhabitants.
It is about 20 km from Asti, the provincial capital.
History.
The origins of Viarigi probably date back to the Roman era, before the year 1000.
The fiefdom was dominated by the Municipality and the Bishop of Asti, the Marquis of Monferrato, the City of Alessandria, and the Savoy.
It was during the period of the French Revolution that Viarigi passed into the hands of the Sacerdote di Casale family.
Administration.
Food and wine and typical products.
Vineyards, orchards, and hazelnut groves are the main economic resources of the area.
To be seen.
The symbol of Viarigi is undoubtedly the splendid Tower of Signals (Torre dei Segnali o delle Vedette).
Also, noteworthy are the parish church of Saint Agata, the deconsecrated church of Saint Silverio and the privately-owned Romanesque church dedicated to Saint Marziano.
The Ancient Archway (Antico Voltone) that extends under the parish church also represents one of the most characteristic views of Viarigi.
Remain to report the Museum of Peasant Life (Museo della Vita Contadina), the murals “Who am I? The acrobat of my soul”, “Balanced on the wall”, “Suryas, "I let you think", various artistic installations made in the Accorneri hamlet (see: Itinerary | The creations of Graziella Calaciura) and the widespread garden.
Curiosity.
The Castle of Viarigi, probably built around the year 1100, was destroyed in 1316 by the lord of Alessandria, Matteo Visconti.
The Tower of Signals was then built on the ruins of the castle.
Information synthesis and/or re-elaboration was taken from the website of the Municipality of Viarigi
Cover image source: Provincia di Asti