Asti

Asti is a town and comune in the Piemonte or Piedmont region, in north-western Italy, 44°54'N 8°12'E, in the plain of the Tánaro river at 123 m (404 ft) above sea-level. Its population according to the 2003 census was 71,500. It is the capital of the Asti province.

History and Monuments

Asti was founded by the Romans. Some sections of the ancient city walls remain on the North side of the city and in the late 20th century building work uncovered a section of Roman wall in the center of the city.

Asti was a very affluent town and trade centre in the middle ages. The area to the NW of the city, between the centre and the Cathedral, is very rich in medival palaces and merchants houses, many with monumental towers.

Events

One of the most famous events held in Asti is the Palio race, in which every quarter, called "rione", and nearby town compete in a horse race. This event recalls a victory in battle versus the rival city Alba, during the middle ages after the victorios battle a race was held around Alba's walls, from then every year in Asti is held the "Palio".

Wine

Within the territory of the province called "Monferrato" are located the most important productions of Italian wine. One of the most exported wines was formerly known as Asti Spumante, but is now called Asti to avoid confusion with wines from elsewhere, many of dubious quality labelled as "spumante". Asti is typically sweet, sparkling, and low in alcohol (often below 8%). The muscat grape is a common component, and Asti made only of Muscat may be called Moscato d'Asti.

Food

Asti is famous for its festival called "Sagre" held in September. During the festival most of the towns in Asti's province meet in a great square called "Piazza del Palio", here they offer typical food and wine for which they are known. One peculiar thing is that before the opening of the festival all the towns involved make a cerimony in costume along Asti's roads to reach "Piazza del palio" square.