Piode: Churches, Alpe Meggiana and Riserva della Piode

Churches and art in Piode

Piode is home to the parish church of Santo Stefano, a Baroque building dating from the late 17th to the early 18th century. It was probably completed in 1748, and its consecration took place on April 24, 1845. The church is therefore one of the notable historic buildings you can discover during a stay in Piode.

The parish church of Santo Stefano contains frescoes by Antonio Orgiazzi. The Stations of the Cross in the parish church are also works by Lorenzo Peracino the Elder. Both artists are therefore associated with different works in the same church: Antonio Orgiazzi with the frescoes and Lorenzo Peracino the Elder with the Stations of the Cross.

To Alpe Meggiana

The Chiesa della Madonna della Prapolla is the historic church of the Meggiana alpine pasture. The church was recently restored and can be reached via the path connecting Piode with Alpe Meggiana. For route planning, this access point can therefore be clearly linked to the connection between Piode and Alpe Meggiana.

Alpe Meggiana can be reached by a drivable road as far as a barrier. From the barrier, a few minutes on foot along an unpaved road lead to the mountain hut. The described access to the mountain hut therefore consists of a drivable section of road followed by a short walk.

Oratorio della Madonna delle Pietre Grosse

The Oratorio della Madonna delle Pietre Grosse is located on the route to Alpe Meggiana. From Piedimeggiana, the oratory can be reached directly by car via the road to Alpe Meggiana. There are only a few steps to the entrance. The specific starting point of Piedimeggiana and the road to Alpe Meggiana are therefore important points of reference for this visit.

Riserva della Piode

Riserva della Piode stretches for 7 kilometers. Of this, 5 kilometers lie within the municipality of Piode. The area therefore extends beyond the municipal boundary, while a large section of Riserva della Piode lies within the municipality of Piode.

Only fly fishing is permitted in Riserva della Piode. Catch-and-release is mandatory; one trophy fish may be kept. The regulation combines the exclusive fishing method with a clear requirement for handling the catch.

Riserva della Piode is home to endemic marble trout and grayling with “blue fins,” as well as native brown trout.

Fest della Prapolla e dell'Alpe Meggiana

A small picnic area is located next to the Chiesa della Madonna della Prapolla. The annual Fest della Prapolla e dell'Alpe Meggiana takes place at this picnic area. The church, picnic area and festival are all located directly at Alpe Meggiana, complementing the historic and nature-oriented attractions around Piode.

More places for planning your trip: Riva Valdobbia, Campertogno, Pila, Alagna Valsesia, Scopello.

For the broader travel overview: Vercelli.