FAI Spring Days - Ricetto di Magnano

A spring weekend of history and art in Magnano

The FAI Spring Days are one of Italy's most beloved cultural events: for an entire weekend, the National Trust of Italy (FAI) opens sites to the public that are usually closed or little-known, with volunteers guiding visitors through them. In Magnano, a small town in the Province of Biella in Piedmont, the FAI Biella Delegation is opening the medieval Ricetto and Villa Flecchia, home to the precious Collezione Enrico.

The Ricetto of Magnano

Nestled on the gentle morainic hills of the Serra biellese, the Ricetto of Magnano is one of the best-preserved fortified villages in Piedmont. Originally built as a defensive structure and communal storehouse, it still retains its medieval layout, narrow alleys, and the church of Santa Marta. It has been repeatedly nominated by citizens in the FAI I Luoghi del Cuore (Places of the Heart) census, a testament to the strong bond between the local community and its historical heritage. During the FAI Spring Days, visits to the Ricetto are coordinated with those at Villa Flecchia.

Villa Flecchia and the Collezione Enrico

Just a short walk from the historic center, Villa Flecchia houses the Collezione Enrico, a collection of over sixty paintings created between the 19th and 20th centuries. The landscapes and mountain atmospheres in the paintings dialogue with the panorama visible from the villa's windows, creating a striking encounter between art and the surrounding territory. Guided tours, lasting about 45 minutes, depart hourly and allow visitors to appreciate works by refined artists up close.

A national initiative with a local soul

The FAI Spring Days are a nationwide event, but in Magnano, they take on an intimate character deeply tied to the identity of the Biella region. The opening is made possible by the dedication of volunteers and Apprendisti Ciceroni (Apprentice Guides)—often local students—who share the history of these places with passion. Participation is by voluntary donation: a small contribution that concretely supports the activities of protecting and promoting Italy's heritage through the FAI.

Why participate

• Visit one of the best-preserved medieval ricetti in Piedmont, which is not always accessible to the public.
• Discover the Collezione Enrico, featuring over 60 paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries, with a guided tour.
• Support FAI with a voluntary donation to help preserve Italian heritage.
• Experience a spring weekend among the morainic hills of the Serra biellese.