Vigoleno village is located on the border of the province of Parma a few kilometers from Castell’Arquato.
Vigoleno is characterized by the elegance of its forms.
Certified among the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy, Vigoleno is a perfect example of the housing logic of the Middle Ages. From the main square, where the sixteenth-century fountain is located, going east you reach the Romanesque church of San Giorgio, dating back to the second half of the twelfth century.
Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit the village.
The walls are imposing, partly covered by a panoramic walkway: the bulk of the quadrangular keep stands out with its loopholes, corbels and Ghibelline battlements, with four floors to visit. The small theatre inside the most recent part of the castle is worth a visit, too.
Vin Santo di Vigoleno is a wine with a controlled designation of origin. The vinification, mandatory aging, bottling and bottle aging operations must only be carried out within the administrative territory of the municipality of Vernasca.
From Vigoleno starts the Anello dei briganti (map), a circuit of about 21 kilometers that reaches Vernasca on the east side of the Ongina stream and returns from the west side, passing through Monte Ciocca. In the flowering season you can admire the golden brooms.
The wonder markets (Mercatini delle meraviglie) are held annually. In spring and autumn "Vinoleno" celebrates the local wine, with tastings and exhibitions.
A short distance away, Vernasca (8 km) is worth a visit with the old church dedicated to San Colombano surrounded by a small garden, which often hosts live music.
The surviving parts of the church are flanked by the ancient rectory which currently houses the Provincial Visitor Center of the Via Francigena. 10 km away is also Castell’Arquato which impresses and fascinates the visitor with its intact medieval atmosphere.
