Discover Barbania

Barbania lies on the southern edge of the Canavese, on the Vauda rise formed by the glacier of the Lanzo Valleys. Travelers interested in cultural history will find several distinct themes here: the gate tower of a medieval Ricetto, the furnishings of two churches and the life story of Bernardino Drovetti, who was born in Barbania. The traditional Festa patronale di San Giuliano adds a recurring occasion to these stories of buildings and lives. You can tailor your stay to your interests in architecture, religious art or festival traditions.

The medieval Ricetto and its gate tower

The Ricetto was built in Barbania in the Middle Ages to protect the population during the ongoing disputes between the local lords. The Torre-porta dell'antico ricetto still retains the slots for operating the drawbridge and the brackets that supported the bridge. The bridge was once used to control access to the Ricetto. Two questions should be kept distinct to understand it: the need for protection explains why the complex was built; the bridge construction explains how access was controlled.

Church art at San Giuliano and the Chiesa dell'Assunta

The Chiesa parrocchiale di San Giuliano Martire has three painted naves and several chapels under the patronage of Barbania’s oldest families. A large crucifix hangs above the main altar, which is made of multicolored marble. The church is accessed from the forecourt and is accessible to people with disabilities. The furnishings at the Chiesa dell'Assunta are different: it has a finely carved wooden Baroque altar with twisted columns. The central altarpiece, dating from the 18th century, depicts the Virgin Mary in glory. The Chiesa dell'Assunta is accessible to people with disabilities both outside, via a ramp suitable for wheelchair access, and inside the church. In comparison, San Giuliano showcases its design across the naves and chapels, while the Assunta emphasizes woodcarving, twisted columns and the central image.

Casa Drovetti and the Drovettiana collection

Casa Drovetti is the birthplace of Bernardino Drovetti (January 4, 1776–March 9, 1852), who was a diplomat, collector of Egyptian antiquities and military man under Napoleon. The collection known as “drovettiana” comprised 8,000 finds; it was sold to Carlo Felice and forms the founding core of the Museo Egizio di Torino. The house’s connection to Drovetti is biographical, while its connection to the museum comes through the collection: the birthplace and the collection represent different aspects of his story. Casa Drovetti is privately owned and can only be visited by arrangement with the owner.

The Festa patronale di San Giuliano

The traditional Festa patronale di San Giuliano in Barbania takes place in late August. It is associated with symbols connected to Celtic traditions, including the bindéj, the caritin and the Carità. If you would like to plan your stay around the festival, check the specific dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Cuceglio, San Giuseppe, Alpignano, Orbassano, Buttigliera Alta, Coassolo, Rivalta Di Torino, Prali

For the broader travel overview: Turin.