Varzi

Varzi is a village located in Oltrepò Pavese land (southern Lombardia). It has been known since 993 and during Middle Ages has been dominated by Malaspina, a powerful family who controlled especially several regions in the centre north Italy. In the later medieval periods, Varzi was controlled by Visconti and then by Sforza families. Because of this particular ancient period, the village has a fantastic castle (built by Malaspina family) and an awesome central area, where the medieval atmosphere is still well present. This area is delimited by two big towers with very ancient gates and walking through them, very old buildings well restored and preserved can be still seen. It is also worth to visit the fantastic Chiesa dei Cappuccini that is located in the periphery of Varzi (not in the central medieval area). This church was built in the VII century, and it is an awesome example of the Romanic architectural last period. Varzi is also known for its particular gastronomy.