Let’s face it: very often, planning a winter weekend, we are a bit intimidated by the idea of visiting the Piedmont hills at this time of year. Somewhat because Piedmont also offers wonderful snow-capped mountains on which to ski, partly because we think there is not much to do in Monferrato in winter. I’ll tell you what: we suggest beautiful museums in the Monferrato region for you to admire between a spa and a glass of wine, you after your visit have a chocolate and tell us how it went.

Leonardo Bistolfi Civic Museum and Plaster Collection – Casale Monferrato

Two museums in one: on the second floor is a valuable Pinacoteca filled with works ranging from the 14th to the 19th century; on the ground floor is the Gipsoteca, which houses a wide variety of pieces created by Leonardo Bistolfi. A journey through time that testifies to the evolution of art in the Monferrato Casalese, dotted with masterpieces such as the Allegory of Music by painter Angelica Bottera; but also a fascinating journey into the reality of the sculptor’s craft.

In fact, the final stone of the work was rarely carved directly; much more often, a plaster work, identical to the finished work, was created first, on which measurements were taken and notes pinned to create the final masterpiece. Gypsum libraries are a testimony to a long and laborious process, a “behind-the-scenes work” that, like many behind-the-scenes jobs, is in danger of being forgotten in the face of the splendor of the final result.

Hours are Thursday from 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and 2.30 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. and Friday, Saturday, Sunday and midweek holidays from 10.30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. For reservations, prices and other info we leave the link: https://www.comune.casale-monferrato.al.it/museo-info

Palazzo del Gusto – Nizza Monferrato

What are the basic pieces of Piedmontese fritto misto? Why is bagna cauda so popular in Monferrato? And again, what differentiates Roccaverano robiola from other robiolas?

In the halls of the eighteenth-century Palazzo del Gusto you will discover the answer to these questions and more: you will immerse yourself in the tradition of a fascinating and mysterious land, follow the story of the men who revolutionized the concept of wine in our cellars, and listen to the story of a choral Journey along the Po’ Valley made by the famous Mario Soldati. When you leave the Museum, stop by the Regional Enoteca to taste a new barbera.

Access to the museum is managed by the Nice Regional Enoteca: here is the link for hours and reservations. https://enotecanizza.it/

Alfieri Palace – Asti

Do you know The Saul? It is one of Vittorio Alfieri’s greatest works. Born into nobility, intolerant of social conventions and military obligations, far from the world of politics, he is one of the most important playwrights of the eighteenth century. Right in Asti is his birthplace, a wonderful palace now consecrated to his life and memory.

As you wander through its scenic halls, you will not only delve into the life of Piedmont’s most famous playwright, but also breathe in the life that was led here, near the future first capital of Italy, in the shadow of the Savoy family and alongside France.

The palace is open Monday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (last entrance at 6:00 p.m.): for information, prices and reservations here the link!https://www.museidiasti.com/palazzo-alfieri/

Archaeological Museum – Acqui

In the imposing Paleologi Castle in Acqui there are not only stories of ladies and knights: there is also evidence of the passage of men and women who have lived in these lands since Paleolithic times. Walking through the streets of Acqui, you will surely have noticed the Roman-era Bollente and the very pretty old town: here you will delve into its history, a fascinating history of peoples, dominations and coexistence of cultures.

It should also be noted that the Castle itself is an Archaeological Museum artifact: built before 1056, it has gone through epochs, renovations, and changes of inhabitants, until it officially became a museum venue in 1970.

The Museum is currently undergoing a massive refurbishment that greatly limits the exhibition space, but it’s worth marking on your calendar!https://www.acquimusei.it/

Of course, this is just a small list of good pointers whether you are planning a Monferrato vacation or want to learn more about your area and perhaps treat yourself to a Saturday afternoon as a tourist in your own home.

From there, it’s up to you to visit the Monferrato, stroll through the streets of the towns, cast an eye over the buildings that seem most interesting to you, and let serendipity capture you, that unique thrill of discovering something unexpected and random.