Located in northern Italy's Piedmont region, this major urban center lies between Milan and Turin. The second-largest city in Piedmont has a population of 105,746.
Novara, the second-largest city in Piedmont, lies at a crossroads between Milan and Turin. Walk through the medieval Broletto complex, admire the 121-meter dome of Basilica di San Gaudenzio, or browse the centuries-old vegetable market at Piazza delle Erbe. The surrounding countryside's rice fields supply local restaurants with authentic risotto dishes, and Lakes Maggiore and Orta make perfect day trips from the city.
Exploring the Historic Center
The 121-meter cupola of Basilica di San Gaudenzio rises above Novara's skyline. Alessandro Antonelli designed this architectural masterpiece in 1888, creating multiple levels of columns that lead to a distinctive lantern at the top. Inside, you'll discover 16th-century artworks, including pieces by Gaudenzio Ferrari. The adjacent bell tower, created by Benedetto Alfieri, complements the basilica's grand design.
The Cathedral Complex
The Novara Cathedral stands on what was once a Roman temple to Jupiter. The 19th-century neoclassical building contains Byzantine mosaics and rose-colored marble columns. Next door, you'll find a 6th-century hexagonal baptistry - the oldest building in Novara. Step inside to see original frescoes and architectural elements spanning different periods of history.
Cultural Hub at the Broletto
Four medieval palaces form the Broletto complex, Novara's main cultural center. As you walk through the courtyard, you'll pass the civic museum, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the Natural History Museum. The complex hosts cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year. A few steps away in Piazza delle Erbe, local vendors sell fresh vegetables at a market that has run for hundreds of years.
Local Food and Rice Traditions
Rice fields surround Novara, influencing its local dishes. Try Paniscia, a rich rice dish made with local vegetables and salami. The city's other specialties include tapulone (a meat dish) and roasted Cuneo chestnuts, which appear during the January feast of San Gaudenzio. Local wineries produce Colline Novaresi DOC wines from Nebbiolo grapes grown in the nearby hills.
Getting Around and Day Trips
You can reach Milan (50 kilometers away) and Turin (one hour by train) from any of Novara's three railway stations. Take a 40-kilometer trip north to Lake Maggiore to visit Arona and the Rocca di Angera fortress. For a quieter experience, travel 50 kilometers to Lake Orta, where you can explore the medieval island of San Giulio.
