Pont Canavese

Access

The municipality can be reached by the Canavesana railway, whose line terminates at Pont, easily connecting it with Turin and Rivarolo. The local road network also provides direct access to the surrounding valleys and Ivrea, while public transport services facilitate travel to neighbouring municipalities and excursion sites. Those coming from other regions can rely on Turin-Caselle airport, with subsequent rail and car connections.

Introduction

Pont Canavese is located in the heart of western Canavese, lying on the valley floor at an altitude of 414 metres, where the Orco and Soana valleys fork. A historical and logistical reference centre of the area, it preserves a landscape heritage characterised by mountains and watercourses that deeply mark the territory and influence its naturalistic vocation. The surrounding landscape offers remarkable views of the Alpine slope and still bears witness to the stratification of eras and events that have marked this geographical junction, among the first to welcome the Franco-Provençal communities.

Description

The medieval imprint is evident in the two landmark buildings, the Valperga and San Martino towers, and in the ancient arcades that punctuate the historic centre. Of particular architectural interest is the parish church of Santa Maria in Doblazio, which stands at the entrance to the Soana valley and is one of the best-preserved examples of Romanesque churches in the area. The ancient fortifications (Ferranda, Tellaria, Castrum Pontis) emphasise the strategic role that Pont has played over the centuries, especially during the struggles between local families, the Tuchinaggio revolt (1391) and the subsequent passages under Savoy rule.
The local history is intertwined with significant moments such as the arrival of the Canavesana railway in the 19th century, the start of the textile and mechanical industry and the central role in the liberation from Nazi-Fascist forces during World War II. The neighbouring hills, such as the ridge of Cima Mares (1451 m), contribute to the image of an area with varied morphology and fertile land for cultivation and livestock breeding, associated with lively craft and textile activities.
Pontese life is deeply rooted in traditions: particularly famous are the San Matteo Fair, a September appointment that marks the return of the herds from the alpine pastures (the transhumance), and the numerous festivals dedicated to typical local products such as soft macaroons, Gran Paradiso kisses, biciulan, meliga pastries and giuraje, which testify to the importance of traditional cuisine and artisan pastries. The area also lends itself to intense hiking activities: trails through forests, ancient hamlets and panoramic viewpoints offer the opportunity to explore the Valle Soana and the Gran Paradiso area, also guided by expert local operators who pass on legends, the Franco-Provençal language and historical curiosities.

Information

Area: 19.06 km²
Altitude: 414m
Maximum elevation: 1.451m - ridge Cima Mares
Inhabitants: 3756
Name in dialect: Pont
Inhabitants name: Pontesi
Patron Saint: San Costanzo (21 September)
Neighbouring municipalities: Alpette, Chiesanuova, Cuorgnè, Frassinetto, Ingria, Ronco Canavese, Sparone
Website: www.comune.pontcanavese.to.it