FAI Spring Days 2026 — Maggiora Cemetery and Scurolo di Sant'Agapito

FAI Spring Days in Maggiora

The FAI Spring Days are the premier national event dedicated to rediscovering Italy's cultural and landscape heritage, promoted annually by the Fondo per l'Ambiente Italiano (FAI). On the weekend of March 21-22, 2026, the small town of Maggiora, nestled in the heart of the Alto Novarese in Piedmont, joins the initiative by opening two sites that are usually inaccessible, thanks to the efforts of the FAI Lago Alto Novarese Group and the FAI Delegation of Novara.

The Maggiora Cemetery and the genius of Antonelli

The first site open to the public is the Maggiora Cemetery, located on Via del Cimitero, which preserves precious evidence of the genius of Alessandro Antonelli, the great architect from Novara famous for the Mole Antonelliana in Turin and the Dome of San Gaudenzio in Novara. Antonelli, a native of these lands, rests here in the family tomb, alongside works also created by his son Costanzo. The visit allows for a close-up look at the architect's stylistic solutions and design elements in an evocative and intimate setting.

The Scurolo di Sant'Agapito

The second site is the Scurolo di Sant'Agapito, located in Piazza Caduti di tutte le guerre, dedicated to the patron saint of Maggiora. It is a space of particular religious and historical value, and its opening is reserved for FAI members according to the association's guidelines. This is a rare opportunity to access a devotional space deeply linked to the identity of the Maggiora community.

Tours and 'Ciceroni'

The visits are led by Ciceroni, student volunteers who guide visitors through the sites. In Maggiora, the openings are also managed by students from the Felice Casorati Art High School in Romagnano Sesia, who share the history and artistic details of these landmarks. The Maggiora sites are part of a broader opening event involving numerous locations throughout the province of Novara.

A gesture for heritage

Participating in the FAI Spring Days means actively supporting the protection of Italy's heritage: the suggested minimum contribution is 3 euros, and all proceeds are donated to the Fondo per l'Ambiente Italiano. It is an event that combines culture, community, and civic engagement, highlighting a precious and often overlooked corner of Piedmont.