Chapel of St. John the Baptist
enture into the heart of Italy’s wine country with our comprehensive guide to visiting Barolo. Renowned for its world-class wines, this charming village in the Piedmont region offers far more than just vineyard tours. From historic castles to immersive wine museums, scenic vineyard walks, and tantalizing wine tasting experiences – there’s something to delight every visitor.
Dive deep into the rich history of the region with a visit to the Chapel of St. John the Baptist, Castello Falletti, home to the Regional Enoteca and WiMu – Wine Museum. Spend a few hours exploring this majestic castle and its captivating exhibits.
Chapel of St. John the Baptist
The Chapel of St. John the Baptist, also known as Cappella di San Giovanni Battista, is a noteworthy site in the Langhe region, near Barolo, Italy. The chapel stands out due to its unusual and colorful exterior which is very different from traditional Italian churches.
Built in the 19th century as a place for local farmers to pray, it was eventually deconsecrated and fell into disrepair. In 1999, the family who owns the surrounding vineyards, the Ceretto family, decided to restore the chapel. They commissioned two artists, David Tremlett, an English artist, and Sol LeWitt, an American artist, to renovate the chapel.
The result is a vibrant, multicolored building that stands out against the green of the surrounding vineyards. The interior was decorated by Tremlett with pastel-colored frescoes, while the exterior was painted by LeWitt in bold geometric patterns of orange, yellow, and blue. The chapel’s unique appearance has made it a popular destination for tourists and a symbol of the region.
However, it’s worth noting that the chapel is not usually open to the public for interior viewing. Its main attraction is its colorful and unique exterior, set against the beautiful backdrop of the rolling vineyards of the Langhe. Regardless, the Chapel of St. John the Baptist is a must-visit spot for anyone touring Barolo for its artistic significance and its striking contrast to the natural landscape.
Other museu in Barolo
- Castello Falletti (Barolo Castle): Located in the heart of the Barolo region, Castello Falletti is a must-see destination for any wine lover. This historic castle is home to the Regional Enoteca, a wine shop that showcases a wide array of local wines. It also houses the WiMu – Wine Museum, where visitors can learn about the history and culture of wine. It’s worth setting aside at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the castle and its attractions.
- WiMu – Wine Museum in Barolo: Situated within the Castello Falletti, the WiMu is a unique museum that offers a journey through the culture and tradition of wine. With its interactive displays and immersive installations, it offers an engaging and educational experience that’s perfect for both wine enthusiasts and novices alike. You can easily spend a couple of hours exploring the museum.
- Barolo Vineyard Walks: If you’re up for a bit of activity, taking a walk through the vineyards of Barolo is an unforgettable experience. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, and a stroll through the vineyards offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Depending on the route you choose, a walk can last anywhere from an hour to a whole day.
- Wine Tasting Experiences in Barolo: No visit to Barolo would be complete without a wine tasting. Many of the local wineries offer guided tastings where you can sample a selection of their finest wines. Some also provide tours of their cellars and vineyards. A typical wine tasting can last about 1-2 hours, but if you’re a real wine enthusiast, you might want to set aside more time to visit multiple wineries.
