Riva presso Chieri: Architecture and Textile History

If you are looking for a hotel in Riva presso Chieri for your stay, the churches, Roman and medieval traces, and the Tessitura Rivese can be the main themes of your visit. There is also a route to the Basilica di Superga, where you can walk or cycle. This makes it easy to explore the town according to the interests you want to combine on your trip: architecture and local history, craftsmanship, or outdoor activities.

Churches and architectural history

The Cappella di Sant’Albano was built by Benedictine monks from Breme Abbey and preserves a semicircular Romanesque apse. The Chiesa della Confraternita della Santa Croce was extended in the 18th century; its dome fresco by Vitaliano de Grassis dates from 1739. The Santa Croce confraternity dates back further: it was founded in 1587 and was based in the church of the same name, which had an adjoining Benedictine monastery.

The Parrocchia Maria Assunta was built between 1725 and 1792 to designs by several architects, including Bernardo Antonio Vittone. Its octagonal central space and elliptical dome define the structure; it is considered a mature work by Vittone. The present-day church of the Santuario della Madonna della Fontana was built in 1777 by Luigi Michele Barberis, a pupil of Vittone. The two churches are therefore connected with Vittone in different ways: in one case through his designs and the attribution of a mature work, and in the other through the training of the architect Barberis.

Roman and medieval traces

The Torre Astense dates from the 12th century. It served as a lookout tower and was also one of the entrances to the town within the medieval walls. This building therefore combines its lookout function with its role as an entrance to the walled town.

There are several Roman-era archaeological sites in the area of Riva presso Chieri, including necropolises and tombs. Traces of Roman centuriation can also still be seen in modern maps. The term refers to a Roman system of land division; here, the subject can therefore be explored through both archaeological sites and maps.

In October 1630, negotiations on preparations for the Peace of Cherasco took place at Riva Castle. Palazzo Grosso has its own architectural history: it was built from Riva Castle. The reconstruction was entrusted to Bernardo Vittone in 1738 and directed by Giacinto Bays from 1771.

The Casetta natia di San Domenico Savio is also part of local history. It is the house in the San Giovanni district where the saint was born in 1842.

Textile tradition and a look at production

At the Bottega storica Tessitura Rivese, you can visit the rooms where warp and fabric are made, with explanations provided. Rooms dating from around 1900 display fabrics, household linen, and finished household products. The visit therefore offers a look at both the production rooms and the textiles and household goods.

The Tessitura Rivese was founded in Riva presso Chieri in 1925 by Anselmo Raimondo Beltramo. It is considered the town’s last textile company to preserve a craft tradition passed down through four generations. The visit thus brings together the history of a particular company and the rooms and products on display in the Bottega.

Route, procession and group accommodation

A route leads from Riva presso Chieri to the Basilica di Superga along a panoramic road. You can walk or cycle there. This outdoor route adds another focus to your trip, alongside the buildings and local history.

Every year, a procession in honour of the patron saint makes its way to the Cappella di Sant’Albano. Its symbol is a small cart pulled by two dogs. The procession therefore also connects the chapel with a recurring local tradition.

Riva presso Chieri is part of the Strade di colori e sapori project. The wider project area offers, among other things, museums, farms and wineries, cycle paths, and hiking trails.

There is also a reception centre for youth and other groups in the adjoining farmhouse of the Casetta natia di San Domenico Savio. It has been operating since 1987 and offers self-catering accommodation for groups of up to 60 people.

Discover more destinations: Villar Focchiardo, Mazzè, Brusasco, Cervoto, Bussoleno, Vico Canavese, Bruino, Sant'antonino Di Susa

For the overview of the wider area: Turin.