Borgoratto Alessandrino: Art in the Townscape

Discover Borgoratto Alessandrino through its public art, local history and paths through the landscape. The Percorso degli Artisti leads through Chiccovello (El Chiquè), along Via Battisti past the birthplace of Cino Bozzetti, and back into town as far as the railings of Villa Ravizza. The named stops give the route a tangible framework: artworks and local history meet a clear sense of place. Chiccovello is also home to the Big Bench degli Artisti, with views stretching as far as Monviso.

Art rooted in the town

Ten depictions of Borgoratto’s landmarks line the Percorso degli Artisti. They were created by Denise Bistolfi. Their shared focus on local landmarks gives the artworks a clear local context: as you stroll along the art trail, you can take in both the depictions and the places they represent. Together with Cino Bozzetti’s birthplace and the railings of Villa Ravizza, they give the route several tangible connections to the town.

At the heart of Borgoratto lies the Giardino dell'accoglienza, a public green space. The Muro dell'accoglienza borders the garden entrance. Lele Gastini designed it in his distinctive style, with references to nature, art and conviviality. Here, the focus is on the design of the garden entrance. The art sites described here therefore take different forms: along the Percorso, you encounter ten depictions on a route; at the heart of the town, a decorated wall defines the entrance to a green space.

Design and landscape

The Panchina degli Artisti also has a clearly documented history: it was designed by American designer Chris Bangle. It was built in its entirety by Borgoratto residents Marino Ferasin, Gianni Massobrio and Filippo Oddone. The bench thus brings together two distinct contributions to its creation: the design and the local construction.

A walk to the Big Bench can be part of longer cycling or walking routes for trekking enthusiasts, cyclists and those who enjoy walks in the countryside. The route to the bench can also fit into a broader active itinerary. The Albergo diurno beside the Bike Point is also intended for cyclists and walkers. It offers toilets, showers, changing rooms and lockers. Alongside the views and art stops, this facility provides practical amenities for people travelling around Borgoratto by bike or on foot.

A taste of local food culture

The Sagra degli Gnocchi is part of the local food culture. In 2022, it celebrated its 20th edition. At the 2024 edition, volunteers from Pro Loco di Borgoratto Alessandrino prepared the dishes by hand using traditional recipes. The 20th edition points to the festival’s long tradition; the volunteers’ cooking also makes the role of the Pro Loco and traditional recipes tangible. If you want to plan your trip around the Sagra, check the specific event date in advance.

When choosing a holiday apartment, you can focus on what you want from your trip: the artworks, garden and local connections invite you to explore the area’s culture and history. The view from Chiccovello, the walk to the Big Bench and the longer cycling or walking routes bring outdoor activities to the fore. This can help you decide whether Borgoratto suits the kind of holiday you have in mind.

Discover more destinations: Fubine, Castellazzo Bormida, Ozzano Monferrato, Cadepiaggio, Garadassi, San Salvatore Monferrato, Borgo Adorno, Valmacca

For the broader travel overview: Alessandria.