Chiusano d'Asti
Asti: Piedmont's Jewel Among Wine Hills
Asti is a beautiful Italian city located in the northwest of the country, in the Piedmont region, famous for its unique wines in the world. With its 73,326 inhabitants, Asti is the capital of the homonymous province and is about 55 kilometers southeast of Turin, in the valley of the Tanaro river, which borders it to the south. The city of Asti is surrounded by spectacular hills, between Langhe and Monferrato, renowned areas for wine production.
History
Asti boasts an ancient and eventful history. The origins of the city date back to Roman times, when it was known as "Hasta" and represented an important road junction for the trade of wines, rice, and fabrics. In the Middle Ages, Asti became a free commune with the right to "mint money." The peak period was between the 12th and 13th centuries, when Asti merchants developed trade and credit throughout Europe.
Attractions
In Asti, there are numerous tourist attractions, including the Palio di Asti, one of the oldest events in Italy, which takes place in September and culminates with a horse race ridden "bareback." Moreover, the city is famous for its wines, especially Asti Spumante, a sweet and sparkling white wine highly appreciated worldwide. Every year, in September, one of the most important Italian wine competitions, called the Douja d'Or, takes place.
Physical geography
Asti is in a favorable position almost in the heart of Piedmont, between Langhe and Monferrato. The city is protected by the hills from influences both from the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, and the influences of the European climate. The climate of Asti is characterized by two rainy periods and two with lower precipitation. Summer thunderstorms tend to be few but strong, making the summer climate extremely pleasant.
Curiosities
A curiosity of Asti is that the city has been the location of numerous shots of famous films, including "My Friends" (directed by Mario Monicelli) and "The Mass Is Over" (directed by Nanni Moretti). Moreover, Asti has been chosen as a background for numerous fashion and high-quality wine advertisements.
In summary, Asti is a beautiful city rich in history, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, and famous for its unique wines and the Palio di Asti. If you haven't visited it yet, you should put it on your list of must-see destinations!
