“Val Tidone, here in Paris? How can that be?” I overhear someone whisper. Let me explain this surprising connection. Allée du Val-Tidone. It is a street named to honor a specific place. It is twinned with the commune of Alta Val Tidone in Italy.
Alta Val Tidone was formed from the union of Nibbiano, Pecorara, and Caminata. It sits in the hills of Val Tidone. The area boasts a lovely natural landscape. Bushes and flowers grow alongside agricultural lands.
Each season in Val Tidone offers unique experiences. Spring brings nature’s rebirth. Summer offers starry nights. Autumn paints vineyards in vibrant colors. November hosts the millers’ festival. The landscape of Val Tidone is dotted with vineyards, castles, churches and sanctuaries.
In Nibbiano, the castle and the church of San Pietro are must-sees. The castle is typically viewed from the outside. It is a private residence. In Pecorara, visit the Baroque-style church of San Giorgio. It was built starting in 1792. In Caminata, explore the ancient secret paths. The towers recall its role as an outpost. The Middle Ages still linger.
Val Tidone also tempts visitors with unique culinary offerings. One standout treat is the “batarö.” This sandwich is quickly baked in a wood oven. It is enjoyed with local salumi or cheese.
Stargazing is also popular in Val Tidone. Visit the observatory in Lazzarello. The Gruppo Astrofili of Piacenza makes it possible.
For outdoor enthusiasts, there’s more. Hike or mountain bike along the Tidone river footpath. Several festivals occur throughout the year. The Appennino festival and Val Tidone Festival happen in the second part of the year. September brings the Val Tidone Wine Fest. October features the truffle fest. November celebrates the millers’ fest. A medieval reenactment marks San Colombano’s Day.
Several other landmarks dot the landscape. There is a sanctuary in Strà dedicated to the Virgin. In Sala Mandelli, visit the ancient Castle and the church of S. Andrea. The Batarö Fest takes place here. Towers, castles, and parish churches abound in Trevozzo, Carreggio, and other locales. Nature lovers should visit Diga del Molato and Giardino Alpino di Pietra Corva. Rocca d’Olgisio is also open to visitors.
Val Tidone’s food and wine are also worth the trip. The cuisine is varied and rich. Piacenza is the only province in Europe with 3 DOP cold cuts. These include Coppa Piacentina, Pancetta piacentina, and Salame piacentino.
Other delicacies include salame gentile and ciccioli. From cotechino to chisöla you can taste the tradition through special De.Co products. But the undisputed symbol of street food in the valley is the batarö.
The wines of Val Tidone are also exceptional. The DOC Colli Piacentini wines include Gutturnio and Malvasia. Numerous companies respect local tradition. They combine it with modern cellar technology. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings and vineyard walks. They also organize picnics and dinners among the vines.
So, as you stroll along Allée du Val-Tidone in Paris, remember its namesake. It is a place of beauty, history, and culinary delights. This street serves as a reminder of the ties that connect communities across borders.