Rosignano Monferrato: Infernot, History and Local Delights

Rosignano Monferrato is part of the “Monferrato of the Infernot”, which belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato”. Underground cellars, a geological walk, art history and regional specialities give the town several distinct points of interest. If you are looking for a hotel for your stay, these themes can help you organise visits according to your interests.

Infernot and Geology

Infernot are small underground cellars carved into Pietra da Cantoni. This distinctive geological formation is found only in the Basso Monferrato. The term therefore refers to a specific type of structure, while Pietra da Cantoni names the geological material. Both are central to the local connection between architecture and geology.

The geological trail “I mari tropicali della Pietra da Cantoni e dintorni” offers another way to explore this subject. Its nine stages in the main town can be reached on foot. The walk begins in Piazza Faletti and continues clockwise to Sant’Antonio. This lets you combine a walk with the subject of Pietra da Cantoni, which is also reflected in the trail’s name.

Art, History and Craftsmanship

Villa Maria was the home of the Pointillist painter Angelo Morbelli for about half a century. His studio, the garden and a documentary collection are preserved there. His long residence and the surviving features give the place a tangible connection to Morbelli. Castello Mellana tells a different story: it was built at the behest of the Mellana family in the early 20th century.

The exhibition of local crafts adds another distinct feature. It showcases embroidery, ceramics, objects made from the characteristic Pietra da Cantoni, wood and marble work, and jewellery. The exhibition is open seasonally; check the current opening hours before your visit.

Regional Food and Wine

The culinary highlights range from a production history to dishes with clearly specified ingredients. Grappa production in Rosignano Monferrato began in 1908 with the establishment of the distillery. Csenta is a traditional festive bread made from flour, cracklings and walnuts. Friciulin are traditional small meatballs; today’s version is made with beetroot, spinach and cooked salami. The two dishes therefore differ both in form and in the ingredients described.

Tuber Magnatum Pico, better known as the white truffle, has long been a characteristic product of Valle Ghenza. Typical wines of the Monferrato Casalese can be tasted and purchased in Rosignano Monferrato. As availability from producers may change, it is advisable to check the current options in advance.

The “Vetrina del Vino e della Viticoltura Rosignanese” was inaugurated on 23 May 2021 and is housed in the ancient cellars and Infernot of Casa Cassano. These cellars and Infernot were restored by the municipality. Visiting times are scheduled for weekends and may change. Be sure to check the current visiting hours in advance.

Planning Your Visit

Two public Infernot in the town hall at Via Roma 19 can be visited on weekdays during municipal office opening hours. On Saturdays and Sundays, contact the Info Point in Piazza Sant’Antonio. Check availability in advance at info@comune.rosignanomonferrato.al.it; booking ahead is recommended.

The Info Point offers volunteer-guided visits on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 to 12:30 and from 15:00 to 18:30. From Tuesday to Friday, it provides tourist information; visits are arranged on request: Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 15:00 to 19:00, Thursdays and Fridays from 10:00 to 12:00 and from 15:00 to 19:00. On Saturdays and Sundays, the Info Point is open for tourist information from 10:00 to 19:00. Visits must be booked in advance by emailing info@comune.rosignanomonferrato.al.it. As opening times and arrangements may change, check the latest information before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Bacchetti, Carpeneto, Arquata Scrivia, Ciglione, Castelnuovo Scrivia, San Salvatore Monferrato, Odalengo Piccolo, Bosio

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