Domodossola

Capital of the Ossola Valley, Domodossola has a long history as a border town, being the last major settlement before the Simplon Pass and Switzerland. It has also always been an important railway hub for both freight and passengers.

A visit to its medieval and Renaissance historic centre, now known as the Borgo della Cultura, is highly recommended. The area is remarkably well preserved and includes Piazza Mercato, a trapezoidal square surrounded by elegant historic buildings decorated with loggias and balconies. Of particular historical interest is Via Briona, home to the ancient tower of the same name, dating back to the 14th century. Also dating back to the 14th century is Palazzo Silva, now a museum housing Etruscan and Roman artefacts as well as fragments of Egyptian mummies.

The town’s patron saints, Saints Gervasius and Protasius, are celebrated every year on 19 June with a large procession to the beautiful Collegiate Church dedicated to them. 

The jewel in Domodossola’s crown is the Sacred Mount of Calvary, whose construction began in 1657 at the initiative of the Capuchin friars. In 2003, it was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Sacred Mount of Calvary is the northernmost of the Sacred Mountains, both in geographical terms and because of the cultural influences of neighbouring Switzerland.

The devotional route runs from the town centre of Domodossola to Colle di Mattarella. The themes of the religious and catechetical route are the episodes of the Stations of the Cross and the Passion of Christ on Calvary.

In 1657, the Sanctuary of the Crucifix was built at the highest point of the route. Inside are two chapels dedicated to Jesus dying on the cross and the Deposition. The other chapels were built in the following years in isolated locations along the paved road leading up from the town. Today, the complex consists of fifteen chapels.

Domodossola is also the departure point for the renowned Vigezzina Centovalli Railway. 

Here is the link for online ticket purchases.