Borgo di Canova, located at the mouth of the Antigorio Valley, is one of the most characteristic hamlets in the municipality of Crevoladossola. A small group of ten or so houses, Borgo di Canova was revived in the years around 2000 thanks to the efforts of a number of private citizens who, little by little, have totally refurbished it, while fully respecting its past.
The related Associazione Canova has also been founded to work toward restoration and redevelopment of the rural stone buildings, as well as the promotion of artistic and cultural events, such as concerts, exhibitions, international conferences and shows.
Sophisticated elegance of the interiors and philological precision in the exterior refurbishment are the main characteristics of the work carried out to renovate Borgo di Canova. Stone, a living material that characterises the whole of the Ossola Valley, also tells the story of this little architectural gem: here dry-laid walls and roofs in granite tiles provide a constant dialogue between past and present. Very probably there were once wine shops and inns in this small village: the old Via Francisca, one of the most important historical roads in the Ossola area, in fact went through the hamlet of Oira. A stream, tributary of the River Toce, flows beside the hamlet and this favoured the building of several water mills that can still be seen today.
Strolling amongst these splendidly renovated houses will be like taking a leap back into the past of this Ossola village, where traditional architecture is a heritage to be protected and celebrated.
Info: www.canovacanova.com
