Gabiano: Castle History and Vineyards

Gabiano combines a rural hilly landscape with remarkable examples of architectural and garden design. Castello di Gabiano stands in a commanding position above the Po Valley; the hills of Gabiano open onto the green valley floor of the Rio Gaminella.

Rural Landscape and Castle Park

The surrounding area alternates between cultivated land, meadows, woods, vineyards, vegetable gardens and orchards. Vineyards are therefore as much a part of the landscape as other farmland and green spaces. The labyrinth of Castello di Gabiano lies at the heart of the park. There, the castle grounds’ strict geometric lines meet the park’s natural character—a contrast that defines the design of the grounds.

The Historic Labyrinth

The labyrinth is a historic monument and is one of the very few documented labyrinths in the historic gardens of Piedmont. It was designed in the 1930s by architect Lamberto Cusani. Its clearly documented authorship and the distinctive juxtaposition of geometric order and the park’s natural character give the grounds a unique cultural and historical dimension. For travelers interested in garden design, it offers a chance to connect a specific work with its period of creation and design context.

Church and Architectural History

The Chiesa di San Pietro Apostolo is designed in the Neoclassical style and has a Gothic bell tower. Both features represent different styles in the same church. The former building was in danger of collapsing in 1688; it was rebuilt in 1690–92. Its features include 19th-century frescoes by Paolo Maggi and a carved walnut choir dating from 1738. These dates span several periods: from the rebuilding at the end of the 17th century, through the 18th-century choir, to the 19th-century frescoes. Architecture and art history thus sit side by side, rather than the church being reduced to a single stylistic description.

Gabiano’s hilltop also has an early architectural history: a robust fortification was built there in the 10th century. This historic landmark broadens the view of Gabiano’s history to include a much earlier period.

Hiking and Cycling

The Camminata della Mimosa is a circular route about 12 kilometers long, with around 300 meters of ascent. It follows a scenic path to Castello di Gabiano and passes through the old village of Gabiano. Spring, fall and winter are recommended as the best seasons for this route. Check route conditions before setting out.

“Gabiano, tra fiume e collina” is a 22.82-kilometer mountain biking route that includes Gabiano and passes through the vineyards around Castello di Gabiano. Details of this route may change; check the current route before riding. The two routes differ in their mode of travel and course: the Camminata is a circular route that passes through the village, while the mountain biking route goes through the vineyards around the castle.

Culinary Traditions

Gabiano’s culinary traditions were shaped by its historical importance as a major crossing point on the Po. They bring together recipes from Monferrato and Vercelli cuisine. Alongside architecture, garden design and routes, these two culinary traditions also form part of the town’s cultural identity.

Discover more destinations: Merana, San Giuliano Vecchio, Corteranzo, Spigno Monferrato, Terruggia, Lobbi, Spinetta Marengo, Fabiano.

Return to the main travel overview: Alessandria.