Montferrat facts for kids
| UNESCO World Heritage Site | |
|---|---|
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| Location | Italy |
| Part of | Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato |
| Criteria | Cultural: iii, v |
| Inscription | 2014 (38th Session) |
| Area | 2,561 ha |
| Buffer zone | 16,943 ha |
Montferrat (pronounced Mon-fer-RAHT) is a beautiful area in Northern Italy, specifically in the Piedmont region. It's a place with a long history and unique geography. You can find parts of Montferrat in the Province of Alessandria and the Province of Asti.
Long ago, in the Middle Ages, Montferrat was a small "marquisate." This means it was like a mini-kingdom ruled by a marquis. Today, Montferrat is known around the world for its gentle, green hills. It's also famous for making amazing wines, like Asti wine, Barbera, and Moscato d'Asti.
In June 2014, Montferrat became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This special recognition was given because of its unique landscapes and traditions. It shares this honor with another nearby area called Langhe.
Contents
Exploring Montferrat
Montferrat is divided into three main parts. Each area has its own special features and towns.
Low Montferrat
This area is called Basso Monferrato in Italian. It surrounds the town of Casale Monferrato. This part of Montferrat is known for its flat plains and gentle hills.
Astesan Montferrat
Monferrato Astigiano covers almost the entire Province of Asti. The highest point in this area is the village of Albugnano. It sits about 549 meters (1,801 feet) above sea level.
High Montferrat
Alto Monferrato is the area around the town of Acqui Terme. This part of Montferrat has more dramatic hills and valleys.
Food and Culture
Montferrat has a very strong and delicious food culture. It is famous for many natural products. It is one of the most important places in the world for producing cheese. It is also known for its rare white truffle. Many other fresh foods like vegetables, cereals, and fruits grow here.
One of the most famous dishes from Montferrat is Agnolotti. These are a special type of pasta filled with meat or vegetables. They are a must-try if you visit the region.
Images for kids
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Mosaic of the 10th century lying on the grave of Aleramo, in the Abbey of Grazzano Badoglio.
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Belforte Monferrato
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Castle of Gabiano Monferrato.
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Snowy vineyards in Casalese area.
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Bricco Lu: the highest point in Costigliole d'Asti area
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Agnolotti, one of Montferrat's typical dishes
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White truffle washed and corner cut to show the interior.
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Moscato d'Asti.
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Altarpiece by Andrea Pozzo.
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Chapel of Guazzolo (Castelletto Merli, Alessandria), an example of Piedmontese Baroque by Magnocavallo.
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Paradise Chapel at the Sacro Monte di Crea.
See also
In Spanish: Monferrato para niños
