Grignasco
Welcome to Grignasco!
Hello everyone! Are you ready to discover a hidden gem in Piedmont? Today I will take you on a tour of Grignasco, a charming town of 4330 inhabitants located in the province of Novara and nestled in the beautiful Valsesia.
Physical geography
Although located in the province of Novara, Grignasco belongs to the Valsesia and borders the province of Vercelli. It is located at an altitude of 322 meters above sea level and borders several municipalities, such as Borgosesia, Valduggia, Boca, Maggiora, and Prato Sesia. The territory is protected by Mount Fenera, which delimits the north of the town and shelters it from the cold currents of Mount Rosa. The hilly slopes surrounding the town form a green basin that extends to the borders of Prato Sesia.
In the territory of Grignasco, the main watercourses are represented by the Sesia river, the Roccia (which rises at about 600 meters above sea level and flows into the Sesia near Prato Sesia), the Mologna stream (which rises in the Monte Fenera park in the territory of Grignasco-Valduggia and flows into the Sesia north of Prato Sesia), the Strona di Briona stream (which also rises from Mount Fenera and briefly bathes the grignaschese territory), and the Magiaiga stream (which rises from Mount Fenera, runs along the fraction of Ara, and flows into the Sesia just north of the village).
History
The first written mentions of Grignasco date back to the year 1000, when the Emperor Otto III confirmed to the Bishop of the Archdiocese of Vercelli the possession of the lands of Grignasco. Later, the town became the seat of the diocese of Novara, as attested by several papal bulls. It is hypothesized that during that period the territory was organized into a series of settlements, corresponding to the current hamlets, scattered in the flat area, while around the hill on which the castle stood, the subsequent building developments were concentrated.
Today, only traces remain of the few ruins of the Castle of San Genesio, but you can still imagine the medieval atmosphere by walking along the streets of Castello and Torrione. Meanwhile, close to the hill, stand the cellars of Grignasco, a sort of small fortress more easily defensible than the rest of the village.
What to see
Grignasco is a small village that is perfect for a quiet walk. In addition to Castello and Torrione streets, which run alongside the hill on which the castle stood, you can admire the parish church of San Vincenzo, built between the 19th and 20th centuries, a few steps from the main square. In the same square, you will find the Town Hall, home to local institutions, while on the opposite side is the building that houses the municipal library.
For nature lovers, the surrounding area of Grignasco is beloved by tourists and locals alike, thanks to the presence of the Monte Fenera Park. Here you can walk along the nature trails, admiring beautiful panoramas and encountering wild animals.
Typical cuisine
The cuisine of Grignasco is typical of Piedmontese tradition and reflects its history and territory. One of the most famous dishes is polenta concia, which is prepared with melted cheese, butter, and local salami. Equally famous are cordi d'oro, pasta sheets stuffed with melted cheese and potatoes, which must be tasted.
In any case, while walking around the town, you will find several restaurants and trattorias where you can enjoy the local cuisine along with a good glass of wine.
Conclusions
Here is the presentation of Grignasco, a town full of history and nature that deserves to be discovered. Here you can walk quietly to discover its beauties and taste the traditional cuisine. I must say that my experience here was really positive, and I can't wait to go back! Surely, this town will also leave you amazed.
