Mountain village in the province of Novara, crossed the river Agogna and located halfway between Borgomanero, Omegna and Arona and between the Lakes Orta and Maggiore. A cultural centre, rich of art and history with interesting buildings of the XVII and XVIII centuries, picturesque views of downtown and typical rural churches. The area offers great hiking itineraries in direct contact with its natural scenario.
The area was inhabited since ancient times, as evidenced by the discovery of relics from the Iron Age. The Romans colonized the area of Lake Orta, and after the fall of the Empire, they were replaced by the Lombards in the year 570. The lands, subsequently ceded to the Duchy of Novara were unified into the Duchy of San Giulio, at the orders of Mimulfo, who had the assignment to defend Ossola from the Franks, but, having betrayed and having allowed their passage through the Simplon, was put to justice by King Agilulf. During the medieval period, Miasino became part of the domain of Bishops of the Riviera di San Giulio. In the XVII century, the town experienced an era of prosperity and development, enriched by the construction of beautiful buildings. In the second half of the XVIII century the domain over the territories was acquired by the Savoy.
Attractions:
- the Parish Church of San Rocco, built in the second half of the XVI century on the ruins of a previous Romanesque chapel. Enlarged in the early XVII century by the architect Richino, it occupies a dominant position over the entire town centre. The façade, surmounted by a tympanum, is rich of decorative elements, features two floors, separated by a balustrade, and embellished with niches and statues. Inside are preserved Baroque and late Baroque art works. The building is flanked by a massive tower with square base, divided into four parts;
- the Church of San Pietro a Carcena, redesigned and rebuilt by the architect Biffi in the XVIII century, on the remains of a previous Romanesque church, already cited in a document of the XIII century, of which today traces are still visible in the Bell tower and the apse. Inside are preserved XVIII century frescoes and valuable icon frameworks;
- the Church of San Gottardo Pisogne, built in the XVI century, in Baroque style, as a simple chapel and enlarged in the next century, designed by Biffi. It presents a valuable fresco, art work of the artist Stella;
- the Church of the Cross in the Castle, preceded by a Via Crucis;
- Villa Nigra, built in the XVI century and enlarged in subsequent centuries, it features three main structures, of which the last built dates back to the late XVI century;
- Palazzo Sperati, a XVII century building with a U-shaped plan, renovated at the end of the XVIII century.