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How to get there: Novi Ligure can be reached by Alessandria through the State route or by exiting at Novi Ligure (Highway A7 Genoa-Serravalle-Milan A26 Genoa-Trafori). From Genoa its easy to reach by exiting at Serravalle Scrivia (Highway A7 Genoa-Serravalle-Milan).
When the words Novi Ligure are pronounced many think of its fantastic chocolate that is produced locally, however in everyone’s mind it is the home of cycle racing. The streets of Novi were used for training and such famous names of cycle racing are: Costante Girardengo, Serse and Fausto Coppi who were born in the nearby town of Castellana as well as other great athletes. Its history narrates the vicissitudes of the city throughout the centuries under the domain of the Tureens and Milanese. In 1815 it was annexed to the Republic of Genoa and the Ligurian influence can be seen in the constructions of the old town center and in the artistic ability of its sacred monuments.
Its agricultural calling and the industrial transformation of the area highlight the signs of the typical Po Valley of the post-war period. The Church of Maddalena highlights a Baroque statue on top of the precious Portal and it has Ligurian Baroque compositions that celebrate the Seplocro and the Calvario. The 19th century Romualdo Marengo Theater has a delicate Neoclassical twist. Very powerful is the Palazzo del Municipio that has a precious painting by Bernardo Strozzi. The Città Vecchia has Genovese palazzos that lead to the beautiful collegiate church of St. Maria Assunta of 1679.
Inside you can admire a 12th century “Crocefisso Nero,” the “Lacrimosa,” which is a Spanish painting that portrays Maria Addolorata, canvases by Fiasella, a group of wooden statues, and a Serassi Organ which is the pride of the church. A staircase leads to a lush park that is surrounded by the ruins of a Maniero of the 13th century that has squared towers. Palazzo Parodi and Palazzo Peloso are wonderful examples of noble architecture.
Today it is pleasing to take a walk down the streets of Novi and to taste its fine local specialties or just to have some fun shopping. The Spinola Castle at Tassarolo is near a beautiful golf course and it is also near the enchanting Villa Raggio. Pasturano is located on a hill with the castle of the Marquis Govoti and a Romanic Church that is very fascinating. Very interesting is the center of St. Christopher that contains a powerful Medieval castle.
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