About 40 km from Asti and 30 km from Turin lies the “Town of Saints and Wines”: this is how Castelnuovo Don Bosco, a village in the Monferrato Astigiano region, is known. This charming town is the birthplace of the renowned Saint Don Bosco.
Surrounded by rows of vineyards stretching across the surrounding landscape, the village preserves several traces of its ancient origins (the first known settlement, called Castelnuovo, was built in 1160).
The Ancient Origins of Castelnuovo Don Bosco
As its name suggests, the village developed around a castle, of which only the medieval Tower of the Rivalba remains today. A short distance away stands the Church of Madonna del Castello, dating back to the Baroque era.
In the historic center, visitors can also find the parish church of Sant’Andrea, which houses a painting by the famous Guglielmo Caccia, known as Il Moncalvo. Over time, different architectural styles have blended together, with medieval buildings coexisting alongside elegant Art Nouveau palaces.
The Land of Saints and Wines
As mentioned, Castelnuovo is closely linked to Saint Giovanni Bosco, but he is not the only religious figure associated with this town.
Among them is Saint Giuseppe Cafasso, the spiritual guide of Don Bosco. His birthplace, located on Via Aliberti, has been transformed into a small sanctuary.
Castelnuovo Don Bosco is also the hometown of Saint Dominic Savio, known as “the Saint of Cradles” because of the miracle attributed to him, said to have helped his mother through a difficult childbirth. Additionally, the town is linked to Cardinal Giovanni Cagliero, a Salesian who founded numerous schools and missions in South America.
Colle Don Bosco and the Sanctuary
Perhaps the most famous landmark in Castelnuovo is the Basilica dedicated to Saint Giovanni Bosco, located just a few kilometers from the town, on Colle Don Bosco.
This imposing structure, standing 26 meters tall, is a major pilgrimage site for believers from around the world.
The Basilica of Castelnuovo Don Bosco
The first stone was blessed on June 11, 1961, and the Basilica was consecrated in 1984.
Externally, the building features classical shapes reinterpreted in a modern style, with an overall capacity of 1,400 people. Inside, it showcases a contemporary design, with marble dominating the lower level and wood defining the upper floor. The grand Pinchi Opus 419 pipe organ, featuring three manual keyboards and a pedalboard with 48 registers, was installed in 2000.
A Starting Point for Trekking and Nature Walks
Beyond the vast vineyards that characterize the area, the surroundings of Castelnuovo Don Bosco are ideal for enjoying nature walks and hiking. The region is home to a dense network of trails winding through forested areas rich in biodiversity, offering visitors an immersive outdoor experience.
