Avigliana

About

Originally the site of a 6th century castle, the town prospered in the 15th century when several of the Princes of Savoy decided the scenic setting would be the perfect place to build their homes. At the heart of the town, the Piazza Conto Rosso is surrounded by medieval arcades and 13th century houses, and dominated by the 14th century Church of San Giovanni. After appreciating the square’s beauty, visitors can head inside to oggle the 16th century paintings by Defendente Ferrari it. On the waterfront, the Shrine of Our Lady of the Lakes has a beautiful 16th century altarpiece and a 14th century icon of Mary. It’s said that the town’s clock tower is one of the oldest in Italy. Unexpectedly the town has an Egyptian museum housing an extensive collection of artefacts.