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How to get there: Highway A6 Savona-Torino, exit at Carcare and go along the S.S. 29.
This small city is located on the left hand side of the Bormida Valley. Cairo Montenotte is a large town under a rock surrounded by ruins of an ancient castle.
The origins of the city are unknown however, the public opinion believes it dates back to Roman times. It was included in the “Marca Aleramica” and it became a feud of the Episcopate of Savona in 967 and of the Marquis Bonafacio del Vasto in 1100 and finally it became property of the Marquis Del Carretto in 1142.
From this moment onward, Cairo Montenotte became the object of disputes and after it was subject to the domain of Genoa, of Monferrato, of Savoy, and the French that the city became in 1708 to 1735 a secure feud of the Savoy family.
Today, near the old part you can admire the traits of the old feudal town. In the newer part there is a modern center for numerous industrial and artisan settlements that in the last 10 years have greatly contributed to the economy.
Many tourist who come to Cairo Montenotte visit the 14th century ruins of the mighty Del Carretto Castle.
Porta Soprana has medieval origins with its great tower and fortified city walls, however, only a few of its ruins are still standing.
Another important monumental building is Palazzo Scarampi and since 1972 it is home of the Civic Library.
In the past, the palazzo was home of the Marquis Del Carretto.
Among the religious buildings there is the superb 18th century Parish Church of St. Lorenzo that was widened in 1816 and the Franciscan Convent St. Maria degli Angeli was built in 1212.
For those who love excursions a must is a trip to the Bric del Tesoro that allows you to enjoy an awesome view of the Langhe.
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