Discover Croce: castles and wine tradition

A trip to Croce can appeal to a range of interests: religious history, wine growing, rural heritage and outdoor activities. In the municipality of Ziano Piacentino, there is an ongoing pilgrimage destination and a church with a long architectural and artistic history; the Val Tidone is characterised by wine growing and hills. Castles and a named trail add to the range of nearby attractions in Croce.

Pilgrimage Tradition and Church Art

In Albareto, in the municipality of Ziano Piacentino, the Sacello di San Lupo remains a destination for pilgrims. From Ziano, you can reach Albareto via the road to the sports ground; check road conditions before setting off. The Chiesa di San Paolo Apostolo in the same municipality dates from the 18th to 19th centuries, while an earlier church is documented as early as 1373. Inside the church are a 19th-century Stations of the Cross by Luigi Achille and paintings by contemporary artist Ulisse Sartini. Pilgrimage tradition, architectural history and sacred art thus offer a variety of cultural points of interest.

Wine Country and Rural Heritage

The Val Tidone is characterised by intensive wine growing, hills and expansive vineyards. Many old mills can still be seen along the Tidone River. The landscape thus brings vineyards and mills into view as reminders of rural history.

In the hills of Ziano Piacentino, Mossi 1558 grows Barbera and Croatina, among other varieties, for its red wines. The estate has been producing wine since at least 1558. A visit to Cantina Mossi 1558 can also include the Museo Contadino. The museum preserves farming and household equipment that belonged to the Mossi family for generations. Wine tastings featuring local DOP products are available by prior reservation only. Check in advance whether the museum is currently open to visitors.

Castles and Trails around Croce

Two castles with different histories lie in the vicinity of Croce. The first structure of Castello di Seminò in Seminò, Ziano Piacentino, was probably built before the 11th century. Castello di Montalbo was rebuilt in the 16th century on the ruins of an earlier medieval fortification. It is now privately owned; if you are planning a visit, ask locally about the options. Seminò is notable for the probable early origins of its castle, while Montalbo is notable for its reconstruction on an older fortification.

A trail near Croce connects Montalbo with Vicomarino via the old “3 ponti” path. Check trail conditions before setting off. Walking is possible as a visitor activity in the Val Tidone; conditions vary depending on the route and season. This allows you to distinguish between a named connection and the more general activity of walking.

When looking for a holiday apartment in Croce, this range of options can help you decide: are you most interested in architectural and church history, wine country or walks? Families with different preferences can choose a shared focus without needing to give every activity equal weight for everyone.

Discover more destinations: Vigoleno, Carpaneto Piacentino, Tassara, Quartazzola, Gazzola, Alseno, Castell'arquato, Piacenza.

Go to the main travel overview: Piacenza.