Without a doubt, Craveggia is one of the most picturesque towns in the whole Ossola Valley and strolling through its narrow streets and little squares will not fail to be fascinating.
Its name probably derives from Cravetia (a place used as goat grazing land) and tells the story of one of the oldest towns in the Vigezzo Valley: archaeological excavations have brought to light a necropolis with grave goods and have helped to define the origins of the settlement, traceable to Roman times.
While strolling along the streets of Craveggia, or even better along the road above the town, your eyes will be drawn to the hundreds of large chimneys rising from the typical sloping granite-tiled roofs. Absolutely charming elegant buildings can be found in the old centre of Craveggia, alongside houses of more humble origin: all the buildings have elaborately frescoed external walls, windows with decorative borders and with curious coats of arms, a rich variety of architectural and artistic features that are truly unique in the whole of the Ossola Valley.
Visiting Craveggia means not missing even a small part of its intensely beautiful old town centre: oratories decorated with paintings and frescoes, Piazza dei Miracoli with the Parish Church (which in turn houses the Treasury of Craveggia, of inestimable value), the splendid baptistery, stairways and fascinating views.
Important events closely linked to the history of this town in Vigezzo Valley, like the festival dedicated to witches that takes place every year in autumn, together with marvellous walks and excursions that lead from Craveggia to the sunny side of the valley, make it a very popular tourist destination.
