Biella BI

Biella lies in the foothills of the Alps in the Biellese area of Piemonte in northern Italy just 80 km from Turin and 100 km from Milan. Biella's past is reflected through the Romanesque, Renaissance and Baroque architecture of city's main buildings whilst Biella's history is inexorably linked with textiles, particularly wool. Today it is known as the "City of Cashmere", due to its production of cashmere products for major Italian Design houses based in Milan, Rome and Florence.

Biella is divided into two distinct areas, Biella Piazzo, founded in 1160 sits atop the hill, with its panoramic views, medieval buildings, porticoes and paved streets. Below, Biella Piano, spreads out over a flat area overlooking the river Cervo, and this is where you will find the pretty cobbled Via Italia and the Duomo. A funicular railway links the two parts of this provincial capital.

The countryside surrounding the city is rich in natural beauty with springs, lakes and mountains in abundance. Nearby notable attractions, include the outlook at Zegna, the ski resort of Bielmonte and the Burcina Natural Reserve. Close to the city lies the Sacred Mountain of Oropa, a site of pilgrimage and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This complex sits at some 1,200 metres above sea level and was built between 1617 and 1620, on the initiative of a Cappuccino Friar, the particular object of devotion at Oropa is 'Our Lady', represented by a beautiful carved wooden statue of a Black Madonna.