Cesara on Lake Orta: History and Sundial

Cesara lies on the western heights of the Lake Orta basin, overlooked by Monte Pizzo. The area’s highlights include the history of the village, the sundial in Grassona, and viewpoints and trails on the western side of the lake. When choosing a destination, you can weigh these interests against each other: a cultural and historical focus, or hikes and lake views.

History and Religious Heritage

The name Cesara is first recorded in a document from 1204. The village’s history follows the fortunes of the fief of the Island of San Giulio. It was under Lombard rule in the early Middle Ages; in the 10th century, Emperor Otto transferred the fief to the Bishop of Novara, who held it until 1767. The two dates refer to different historical milestones: 1204 marks the first record of the name, while 1767 marks the end of the fief’s affiliation with the Bishop of Novara.

Apro is part of the area’s religious heritage. His remains are kept in the parish church of Cesara and continue to be venerated by the local community’s faithful. Local history and religious tradition thus sit alongside the longer history of the fief.

The Sundial in Grassona

In Grassona, an outdoor armillary sundial stands in a park beside the municipal road that runs through the village, opposite Piazza San Pietro. The installation is freely accessible and was designed as a scientific and educational instrument. It illustrates the apparent movements of the Sun, Earth’s rotation and the celestial sphere. Those interested in astronomy will find a tangible point of reference here: the sundial’s educational purpose covers several related celestial phenomena, not just one aspect. This makes a visit to Grassona a good way to explore a clearly defined cultural and scientific topic.

Viewpoints and Hiking Trails

The Grand Tour del Lago d’Orta offers a short detour to the scenic Croce di Egro. From there, views extend across Lake Orta from Omegna to the southern part of the lake basin. The Pizzo di Cesara–Croce di Nonio loop takes a different route: a steep ridge trail descends to Cesara. The parking area near the parish church in Cesara is used as the starting point for the loop.

Pizzo di Cesara and Croce di Nonio are also on the western side of Lake Orta, with well-marked trails leading to them through beech and chestnut forests. There are options for different hiking preferences: a short detour with lake views, trails through beech and chestnut forests, and a steep descent to Cesara. Trail conditions may vary by season. Check current conditions before setting out, and check that Croce di Egro is accessible before making the detour.

Discover more destinations: Intra, Gurro, Artò, Cresseglio, Nonio, Villadossola, Piedilago, Ceppo Morelli

For the main travel overview: Verbano-Cusio-Ossola.