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Divided into five distinct areas, they represent an extraordinary synthesis of human activity and the natural landscape.
The five areas include Langhe-Roero and Monferrato, characterized by undulating hills and vineyards producing renowned wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco. The Canelli area is famous for its Moscato vineyards, while Nizza Monferrato is known for Barbera, a highly prestigious red wine. The Castle of Grinzane Cavour area, encompassing an ancient residence and the surrounding vineyards, provides insight into Piedmont's wine history. Lastly, the Susa and Orco Valley is a more northern area with a lesser-known but equally important winemaking tradition.
These vineyard landscapes bear witness to the intimate connection between humans and the land, illustrating the long-standing commitment of Piedmont's inhabitants to cultivating vines and producing excellent wines. Their inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list underscores the universal value of this winemaking culture and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
The Langhe-Roero and Monferrato vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Piedmont, Italy, showcase a remarkable blend of winegrowing areas and historical structures. Spanning the southern part of Piedmont between the Po River and the Ligurian Apennines, this region encapsulates the wine production processes that have thrived for centuries. With evidence of vine pollen dating back to the 5th century BC when Piedmont served as a meeting point for the Etruscans and Celts, this area holds a rich history. Roman accounts, such as those by Pliny the Elder and Strabo, attest to its importance in ancient Italy. The Langhe-Roero and Monferrato vineyards feature five distinct winegrowing regions, each with a unique history and specific soil, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques. The landscape includes carefully tended hills adorned with structures that add visual appeal, including hilltop villages, castles, churches, farms, cellars, and storehouses for wine storage and distribution. The entire property embodies a perfect harmony of aesthetics, architecture, history, and the art of winemaking.
The cultural landscapes of these vineyards are a testament to centuries of winemaking traditions that have evolved and adapted over time, providing a holistic view of the region's social, rural, urban, and economic aspects. They consist of various well-preserved elements reflecting historical practices and traditions. The Langhe-Roero and Monferrato vineyards illustrate how humans have interacted with the environment by adapting grape varieties to specific soil and climate conditions, thus setting an international standard. Furthermore, these vineyards exhibit significant aesthetic qualities, making them an exemplary European vineyard.
The property's integrity is intact, as it includes all necessary components to convey its values comprehensively. Collectively, its five regions reflect the complex cultural, architectural, environmental, and productive dimensions of this wine-producing area. It exemplifies traditions developed over centuries, showcasing authentic and expertly practiced processes. The landscape elements and cultural features of the property are authentic, demonstrating the continuity of ancient practices and expertise. The Piedmont vineyard landscape presents a harmonious and scenic rural setting, accentuated by gentle rolling hills, offering numerous vistas and panoramas.
The site is legally protected under the Cultural Heritage and Landscape Code (Decree n°42 of 22 January 2004), regulated by the Cultural Heritage Ministry and regional authorities, outlining the responsibilities and application procedures. Municipalities oversee permits for construction and alterations in accordance with their regulatory plans. Buffer zones are also protected by provincial acts.
The Management Association, comprising municipalities within the property and buffer zones, is responsible for coordinating conservation measures, as detailed in the Management Plan. The Agreement Act represents the commitment of each municipality and administration to protect the property and actively participate in its management and enhancement.
The landscapes of Piedmont offer one of Italy's most fascinating blends of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the vineyard-clad hills of Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato to the majestic Alps that frame the region, Piedmont is a land of contrasts and harmony. These landscapes not only captivate with their aesthetics but also tell stories of agricultural and winemaking traditions that have shaped the local culture. Recognized by UNESCO, the unique landscapes of Piedmont are a perfect example of how nature and human intervention can coexist, creating a breathtaking scene that attracts visitors from around the world.
The two major hilly areas of Piedmont are known as the Langhe and Monferrato. These regions, located in the heart of Piedmont, are famous for their spectacular landscapes and the production of internationally renowned wines. The Langhe stretches across the provinces of Cuneo and Asti, while Monferrato is primarily in the provinces of Asti and Alessandria. Both hilly areas are part of the UNESCO site dedicated to the vineyard landscapes of Piedmont.
The vineyard landscapes of Piedmont recognized by UNESCO include five main regions: Langhe, Roero, Monferrato, Canelli (famous for its historic underground cellars, known as "Underground Cathedrals"), and Monferrato degli Infernot. These landscapes represent Piedmont's long winemaking tradition, characterized by the cultivation of renowned grape varieties such as Nebbiolo, Barbera, and Moscato. Each area boasts a unique blend of geographical and cultural features that contribute to the production of world-renowned fine wines.
Piedmont is a region rich in spectacular lakes. Among the most famous are Lake Maggiore, which extends into Lombardy and Switzerland; Lake Orta, known for its tranquil atmosphere and the charming village of Orta San Giulio; and Lake Viverone, one of the largest in Piedmont. Other notable lakes include Lake Mergozzo, famous for its clear waters, and several alpine lakes such as Lake Moncenisio and Lake della Serra. These lakes offer breathtaking natural landscapes and tourist attractions for both nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
One of the most beautiful valleys in Piedmont is undoubtedly the Valle Maira. Located in the province of Cuneo, this valley enchants visitors with its breathtaking mountainous landscapes, picturesque Alpine villages, and unspoiled nature. Valle Maira is famous for its spectacular hikes, such as the Giro di Viso trail, and its rich historical and cultural heritage, including ancient churches and abbeys. This valley offers a unique experience for mountain lovers, trekking enthusiasts, and slow tourism seekers, and is often considered a hidden gem of Piedmont.
Ivrea, a 20th-century industrial city, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2018.
