Revigliasco d'Asti
Asti: a city among the hills of Piedmont
Asti, or Ast in Piedmontese, is an Italian municipality with about 73,326 inhabitants and is the capital of the province of Asti. It is located about 55 kilometers southeast of Turin, in the valley of the Tanaro River, among the famous hills of Monferrato and Langhe.
History
Asti has a Roman history and was known as Hasta. It was the seat of the Duchy of Asti, a Lombard duchy of Neustria, and was an important commercial center between the 12th and 13th centuries thanks to the activities of its merchants, who developed trade and credit throughout Europe. In the Middle Ages, it was a free municipality with the right to "coin money."
Physical Geography
The Asti territory is characterized by the presence of famous hills, known worldwide for their wines. Asti is located in a central position in Piedmont and is crossed by the Tanaro River. According to the results of the 16th edition of "Ecosistema urbano" of Legambiente, Asti ranks 26th in the virtuous rankings in environmental and ecosystem fields.
Climate
The climate in Asti is characterized by two rainy periods and two with less precipitation. The average annual temperatures are around 12.7 degrees, with the hottest month being July and the coldest being January.
Wines of Asti
Asti is known worldwide for its wines, particularly for Asti Spumante. Every year, in September, one of Italy's most important wine competitions is held, called Douja d'Or. Thanks to the famous hills surrounding Asti, wine production is a particularly important activity for the local economy.
Palio di Asti
Asti is also famous for the Palio di Asti, one of the oldest events in Italy, which takes place in September and culminates in a horse race without a saddle. The event attracts tourists from all over the world every year and is an opportunity to celebrate local traditions.
Things to see in Asti
In Asti, there are many things to see and do. Among the most interesting monuments are the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the baptistery of San Pietro in Consavia. The Troyana Tower, 44 meters high, is an impressive medieval tower that can be admired near the historic center.
Asti is a city rich in museums: the Diocesan Museum and the Civic Archaeological Museum are just two examples of cultural institutions that are worth a visit. One cannot forget to take a walk through the historic center of Asti, with its streets and squares. Here you can find shops, bars, and restaurants where you can taste typical Piedmontese cuisine.
Conclusion
Asti is a city rich in history, traditions, and natural beauty. Its wines and the Palio di Asti attract thousands of visitors from all over the world every year. Walking through its historic center and enjoying local food and wine are just two of the many pleasures that this city can offer to its visitors.
