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Welcome to Bettola
If you are passionate about nature and want to discover places that are still off the beaten path, then you're in the right place! Bettola, a small town in the province of Piacenza, is the perfect place for a break from the city and chaos.
Physical geography
The territory of Bettola is situated in the middle of the Nure valley and offers a wide variety of landscapes. The capital, also called the gateway to the valley, is located in a particular position where the valley narrows and the terrain becomes mountainous. Two mountain passes start from here and allow you to reach other neighboring municipalities. The Nure river divides the town into two parts: the San Giovanni district and the San Bernardino district, which in the past were autonomous municipalities connected by a bridge. The municipal territory also includes part of the Perino valley, famous for the Perino waterfalls, and the Riglio valley.
Breathtaking landscapes
The territory of Bettola is characterized by a great variety of landscapes. The southern part is mountainous and presents terraced cultivation, while the northern part is predominantly agricultural. The municipality is also home to a protected natural area, the Perino valley, where the Perino waterfalls, which fall more than 60 meters, can be found. This enchanted place can be reached via a marked trail.
Medieval history
The history of Bettola has ancient roots dating back to the Lombards era. The territory was part of the possessions of the Abbey of San Colombano di Bobbio, and the court of Calenzano extended into the Nure valley in the territory of Bettola and the neighboring municipalities. Over the centuries, several castles and possessions will be dependent on the Monastery of San Pietro in Ciel d'Oro and then donated to the bishop Folco Scotti of the Diocese of Pavia with Papal Bull of Pope Honorius III on May 11, 1217.
Cultural heritage
The church of San Giovanni Battista
One of the most important monuments in Bettola is the church of San Giovanni Battista. It is located in the San Giovanni district and was built in the eighteenth century in Baroque style. The facade is characterized by a linteled arch portal and three large windows. Inside, the church is divided into three naves and preserves some works of art of considerable importance. Among these, the canvas of the Madonna della Cintura and the white marble baptismal font.
Local museums
Bettola is also home to three small but interesting museums: the Museum of Bettola's History, the Museum of Peasant Civilization, and the Museum of Printing. The Museum of Bettola's History offers visitors a historical-artistic path that covers the history of the town and the valley. The Museum of Peasant Civilization collects everyday objects and agricultural tools used until the 1860s. The Museum of Printing, on the other hand, exhibits the machinery and tools used in local printing houses.
Events and Festivals
Patronal feast of San Giovanni Battista
The patronal feast of San Giovanni Battista is held every year on June 24. It is a festival that is deeply felt by the local community, characterized by a historical procession in costume, the procession of the statue of the saint, and the presence of many booths selling local products.
San Lorenzo fair
The San Lorenzo fair, held on August 10, is one of the most important in the area. It is a traditional fair with stalls of local products, antique and modern markets.
Gran Fondo del Nure and Vigolzone-Bettola
For cycling enthusiasts, two events not to be missed are the Gran Fondo del Nure and the Vigolzone-Bettola. The first is a long-distance road cycling race held every year in September. The Vigolzone-Bettola, on the other hand, is a mountain bike race that winds through the trails of the Nure Valley.
Gastronomy
Local products
Bettola is known for its high-quality local products. Among these, we remember the salami of Bettola, made with pork meat, with a delicate taste and intense aroma. Other highly appreciated food products are cheeses, among which stands out Parmigiano Reggiano Dop, and fried cake, which can be tasted in all the taverns and restaurants in the town.
If you want to spend some days away from traffic and noise, come and discover Bettola. Its landscape, history, and gastronomy will enchant you!
