Cameriano: Castle, Frescoes and Cascina Graziosa

Cameriano can be explored through a range of historical and cultural themes: the early evidence for Castello di Cameriano, the frescoes in the Chiesa Parrocchiale di Santo Stefano, and Cascina Graziosa. There is also the circular route “Pecorso 6 – Cascina Graziosa,” which can be travelled on foot or by bicycle. If you are looking for a hotel in Cameriano, these different points of interest can help you tailor your trip to your own interests. The following sections give you an overview of historical milestones, works of art, and the route.

Castle and church: historical milestones and frescoes

The earliest evidence for the existence of Castello di Cameriano dates back to 989. It is recorded that the castle was still operational in the mid-14th century. These details provide two distinct historical reference points: the year 989 relates to the earliest evidence of its existence, while the later date describes its status at that time. Together, they provide a timeframe for exploring the history of the castle and make clear that these are separate milestones.

In the Chiesa Parrocchiale di Santo Stefano, by contrast, the focus is on specific subject matter in the artwork. Three of the church’s oldest frescoes are located behind the marble high altar, which was altered in the 18th century. They depict two episodes from the life of Jesus and the martyrdom of Saint Stephen. Their location and subject matter help put the frescoes in context: besides considering which scenes are depicted, their position behind the high altar is also an important feature. While dates bring the history of the Castello into focus, the church introduces religious themes in art.

Cascina Graziosa: courtyards and film history

Cascina Graziosa is arranged around several courtyards. This layout gives the architecture a clear structure: rather than looking at just one building, you can describe the complex through its courtyards. Another point of interest is the film “La risaia,” which was shot at the Cascina in 1953. Folco Lulli and Elsa Martinelli played the lead roles; several people from Cameriano and nearby towns appeared as extras. Two different themes therefore come together at this site: the architectural complex with its several courtyards and a specific episode in film history that also involved people from the surrounding area.

Circular route on foot or by bicycle

The circular route “Pecorso 6 – Cascina Graziosa” can be travelled on foot or by bicycle. It passes through the settlements and includes the “strade delle mondine.” Information boards explain their route and provide descriptions of monuments and some farmsteads. Two features may be particularly useful when planning your visit: you can choose between the explicitly stated modes of transport, and you know that the boards provide information about places along the described route. The information about monuments and farmsteads offers a thematic way to explore the route, distinct from the castle’s historical milestones and the church’s frescoes.

Local context and travel planning

Cascina Graziosa is located in the area of Cameriano, which belongs to the municipality of Casalino. This information is useful if you want to cross-check place names when planning your trip: the Cascina is associated with Cameriano, and Cameriano belongs to the municipality of Casalino.

A dated event reference is also recorded: the Festa Paesana held its 19th edition in 2025. If you would like to plan your stay around the festival, check the dates for your travel year. To choose a focus for your trip, you can compare the different themes: the castle and frescoes offer historical and art-related points of interest, the Cascina brings together architecture and film history, and the circular route is the stated way to explore the area on foot or by bicycle.

Discover more destinations: Castelletto Sopra Ticino, Casalino, Suno, Oleggio, Fara Novarese, Fontaneto D'agogna, San Maurizio D'opaglio, Bellinzago Novarese

For the broader travel overview: Novara.