Candelo and the Sanctuary of Oropa - Biella

The Ricetto of Candelo is an ancient fortified village probably dating back to the end of the 13th century and beginning of the 14th century. The word "Ricetto" comes from latin and means "refuge, harbour". This word is used to identify a settlement surroundinded by fortifications. This ricetto was built by local people with the aim of protecting wine and wheat, that were stuck within the ricetto, from robbery.

The Ricetto of Candelo is the largest and best preserved of its kind. Its good state of preservation was possible thanks to the fact that it was used until recent times.

The Sanctuary of Oropa is a huge religious complex consisting of several buildings. It was built in the mountains in a very peculiar position, at 1 200 meters a.s.l. It is dedicated to the Black Madonna and the two most important buildings are the Ancient Basilica dating back to the 17th century and the imposing Upper Basilica built in the 20th century which are connected by a monumental staircase. A big square and a cloister were built too. A Sacred Mount dedicated

the life of the Virgin Mary was also built. There are 12 chapels that date back to the 16th / 17th century. The Sacro Monte of Oropa is a Unesco site, just like other important sacred mounts in Piedmont and Lombardy.