Calice al Cornoviglio

Calice, whose fortified layout will always stand out, overlooks the valley landscape perched on a hill that looks to Mount Cornoviglio. You can recognise it at a glance because it evolved under the guard of an imposing noble residence, a mixture of elements of the fort, still perfectly preserved today, and of subsequent remodelling.

It earned the name of Doria-Malaspina Castle – since its defensive purposes are still evident -, and its main body houses the municipal headquarters, an environmental education centre, as well as the Pietro Rosa museum and the permanent exhibition dedicated to Davide Beghé, a painter who was born here. The Doria-Malaspina castle rests on a vast lawn, with a rectangular body and two immense towers at the corners. Descending to the old warehouses, you will find an interesting didactic itinerary: the Museo dell’Apicoltura (Beekeeping Museum), with its collection of vintage prints, farming beehives and extensive photographic material.

Surmounting the manor houses, in Piazza del Leone, is the Church of Nostra Signora di Loreto, an imposing architectural example of the “Lunigiana” style, with a richly decorated façade. Equally interesting are the Church of Santa Maria, the Church of Madonna del Carmine and the Church of Sts. Sebastiano and Fabiano.

Every year, in early December, the patron saint’s festival of Sant’Agostino takes place. In August, sometimes in September, there is “Agrimiele”, with a tasting of fresh honey, among stands and food stalls; in the main square, the entertaining “Miss Goccia di Miele” competition.

In Calice al Cornoviglio October is dedicated to chestnuts, and for the occasion there are countless recipes and tastings.