Open Gardens

A village that becomes a diffused garden

Every year, on the first weekend of May, Ponzano Monferrato opens the gates to its most beautiful gardens. Open Gardens is an event promoted by the Municipality and the Pro Loco of Ponzano Monferrato which, in the heart of the Monferrato Casalese in the province of Alessandria, invites residents and visitors to rediscover the bond between the village, its hilly landscape, and its historic residences. The concept is that of a "diffused garden": for two days, the entire town becomes a route to be explored on foot, through private parks, villas, and castles not normally accessible.

Gardens and residences to visit

The heart of the event consists of the five locations open to the public: Villa Il Cedro, Dimora Al Sagittario, Castello di Ponzano, Villa Marta, and Castello di Salabue. Visitors are accompanied by volunteer guides who share the history of these sites, while the Salabue Artistic Zoo offers guided tours at various times throughout the day.

The two-day program

The event kicks off on Saturday afternoon with a conference on greenery and well-being in the Town Hall Council Chamber, followed by the opening of a photography exhibition at Dimora Al Sagittario. The evening continues at the Pro Loco, in Piazza Unità d'Italia, with local culinary specialties and live music.

• Saturday: conference, exhibition opening, dinner, and evening musical entertainment with a live band.
• Sunday: "From Garden to Garden" walk (approx. 10 km) starting from Piazza Unità d'Italia, opening of the gardens, Salabue Artistic Zoo tours, and children's entertainment with jugglers, soap bubbles, and balloon sculptures.

Flavors of Monferrato

Gastronomy is an integral part of the festival: menus celebrate the Municipal Denominations (De.Co.) of Ponzano, featuring cold cuts, Russian salad, tomini cheese, roast beef, tagliolini pasta, and the signature hazelnut panna cotta. There are also tastings in local wineries and nursery stalls. The Sunday walk, organized with the Nordic Walking Valcerrina group, crosses the Monferrato hills—a UNESCO World Heritage site—winding through vineyards, woods, and ancient farmhouses.

Why attend

Open Gardens is a rare opportunity to discover an authentic corner of rural Piedmont, where the viticultural landscape of Monferrato meets the history of country estates. It is an event suitable for families, botany enthusiasts, and those seeking slow tourism, characterized by walks, social encounters, and fine dining.