Gavi
Discovering Gavi
Are you ready to discover the municipality of Gavi? This small town located on the right bank of the Lemme river is characterized by a long and fascinating history. The inhabitants of Gavi, numbering 4,472, live among the green hills of Novese, just a few minutes from Novi Ligure, only 40 km from Alessandria and 60 km from Genoa. But not only that, the city is only 140 km from Turin and can be considered a perfect starting point for visiting various destinations in northern Italy.
Gavi boasts the recognition of the "Orange Flag" and is famous for the precious Cortese di Gavi wine, to which it gives its name. But what are the origins of this picturesque municipality?
History
Along the course of the Lemme and Neirone rivers, artifacts dating back over 2000 years have been found, demonstrating the presence of man already in prehistoric times. It is believed that the name "Gavi" derives from the Neolithic station of "Cavatium," from which the Latin "Gavium" originated. Throughout the centuries, Gavi has been occupied by numerous tribes, including the Goths, Magyars, and Saracens. According to legend, a princess, Gavia or Gavina, even settled in the Gavi Castle.
The first official document mentioning Gavi dates back to 972 and is preserved in the State Archives of Genoa. Over the centuries, Gavi was ruled by the families of the Obertenghi and the Guasco di Alessandria until it was ceded to the Republic of Genoa in 1202. After a short French interlude, Gavi returned under Genoese control with the advent of power of Andrea Doria.
Given its strategic position, Gavi has been involved in most of the conflicts that have affected the Republic of Genoa and the neighboring Duchy of Savoy. During the Napoleonic era, the Fort was occupied by the French army, including the famous poet Ugo Foscolo.
The Gavi Castle
The Gavi Castle is one of the main tourist attractions of the municipality. The first historical document mentioning the castle dates back to the year 1000 when Gavi belonged to the Obertenghi family. Since then, the castle has been the target of continuous attacks and sieges until it was renovated in 1700.
The Gavi Castle stands on a rocky hill and is one of the best preserved medieval fortifications in Piedmont. Beneath its mass, a maze of tunnels, secret passages, and environments recount the history of this ancient fortress.
Gavi and Wine
Gavi is known above all for the precious Cortese di Gavi wine. This white wine is produced in the hilly area between the provinces of Alessandria and Asti, from the Cortese grape, an ancient native variety.
The Cortese di Gavi wine is characterized by a light straw color and fruity and floral scents. It is perfect to pair with fish dishes, shellfish, and fresh cheeses.
Every year, the "Sagra del Cortese" is held in Gavi, a event that celebrates this precious wine. During the festival, you can taste typical local products, including appetizers paired with Cortese di Gavi.
Excursions in the Surroundings
Gavi is also a perfect starting point for excursions and visits to discover the surroundings. A few kilometers from the city is the "Parco Naturale delle Capanne di Marcarolo," an area characterized by woods, meadows, and waterfalls that offer the opportunity for long walks immersed in nature.
For history enthusiasts, a few kilometers from Gavi are the Fort of Gavi, the Fort of Voltaggio, and the Castle of Tagliolo Monferrato, which are definitely worth a visit.
Conclusions
In summary, Gavi is a municipality characterized by a long and fascinating history, located among the green hills of Novese. The Gavi Castle is one of the main tourist attractions of the municipality, while the Cortese di Gavi wine represents a true culinary excellence of the area.
Gavi also represents a perfect starting point for excursions in the surroundings, to discover the natural and historical beauties of the region. So, what are you waiting for to visit this picturesque municipality of Piedmont?
