Top 18 Natural Monuments around Benna
Best natural monuments around Benna are found in the Province of Biella, Piedmont, Italy, offering a diverse range of landscapes. The region features ancient Roman mining sites, protected alpine environments, and unique geological formations. These areas provide opportunities to explore historical traces and observe ecological succession in varied natural settings.
Best natural monuments around Benna
- The most popular natural monuments is Baraggia di Candelo – Baragge Nature Reserve, a natural monument characterized by large clearings of heather and sparse…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site
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It is located between Biella and Ivrea, included in the municipalities …
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Lake Bertignano
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Baraggia di Candelo – Baragge Nature Reserve
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Climb to Oropa from Biella
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Cervo Stream Badlands
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Tips from the Community
Must do, at least once, interesting place.
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The climb is very tough but once you get to the top the sanctuary is beautiful.
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Oropa is an important Catholic pilgrimage site in the Piedmont Alps, about 12 kilometers northwest of Biella, Italy. It lies in a picturesque valley at an altitude of approximately 1,159 meters. In brief: * Pilgrimage site: One of the most important Marian pilgrimage sites in the Alps, dedicated to the Black Madonna. * History: According to tradition, the pilgrimage dates back to Saint Eusebius in the 4th century. * Sacro Monte: The Holy Mountain of Oropa, with 12 chapels depicting the life of the Virgin Mary, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003. * Basilicas: Consists of the old basilica (17th century), where the Black Madonna is venerated, and the newer, larger Basilica Superior (20th century). * Nature and activities: Surrounded by mountains, it offers opportunities for hiking, trekking, and mountaineering. There is also a botanical garden and an adventure park. * UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized along with eight other "Sacri Monti" in the region for its religious, cultural, and scenic significance. Oropa is a place of spiritual significance, impressive architecture, and natural beauty, attracting many pilgrims and visitors annually.
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The climb to the Sanctuary of Oropa from Biella is a Piedmont classic. It is about 13 km intense and constant, which do not allow respite with always challenging slopes. The iconic and hardest stretch is the last kilometer on the scenic pavé, made legendary by Pantani's feat in the Giro '99.
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A rare beauty of erosion, a wild and solitary place a stone's throw from civilization, easily accessible by bike or on foot (about 2km) from the Sp Castelletto Cervo – Cossato.
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Small and quiet lake where you can take 4 steps
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I recommend it because there are some nice paths in the area, unfortunately the lake itself and the scenery are a bit ruined by large electric pylons.
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The area of the Bessa Nature Reserve is approximately 8 kilometers long, with an average width of one kilometre. It is located between Biella and Ivrea, included in the municipalities of Borriana, Cerrione, Mongrando and Zubiena, on the orographic right of the Elvo stream. It is part of the Serra moraine, considered the largest in Europe. A lunar appearance, with large mounds placed together like desert dunes, made up of stones of various sizes. Between one pile and another, curtains of often impenetrable plants and bushes. This is the aspect that one perceives when entering the Bessa Nature Reserve for the first time, established in 1985. But the charm of Bessa also lies in its history. One thing is now certain. This entire large territory, almost ten square kilometers, has been entirely modified in its appearance by the work of thousands of men. These were the Ictimuli - or Vittimuli - who inhabited a large part of the Biella area over two thousand years ago. Led and exploited by the Romans between the 2nd and 1st centuries BC. they transformed the Bessa into one of the largest open-pit gold mines in the world. Traces of this immense work remain in the mounds, erected by piling up the stones discarded during the excavation. Source: https://www.atl.biella.it/localita-dettaglio/-/d/riserva-speciale-della-bes-1
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular natural monuments around Benna?
Visitors frequently enjoy the Baraggia di Candelo – Baragge Nature Reserve, known for its extensive clearings of heather and unique clayey soil. Another favorite is the Cervo Stream Badlands, offering a wild landscape with striking red-yellowish gullies. The Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site is also highly rated for its blend of ancient Roman history and natural reclamation.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments near Benna?
Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. The Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site is considered family-friendly, offering an intriguing historical and natural landscape. Lake Bertignano is another great option, providing a serene setting for a family outing with beautiful views.
What unique geological features can I observe in the natural monuments around Benna?
The region boasts several distinct geological formations. The Baraggia di Candelo – Baragge Nature Reserve features a plateau with clayey soil and gully morphologies, sometimes referred to as the 'Biella Savannah'. The Cervo Stream Badlands showcase impressive red-yellowish gullies formed by erosion, creating a 'Biella Grand Canyon' effect. Additionally, the Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site is characterized by extensive mounds of stones, remnants of ancient Roman gold mining, giving it a 'lunar appearance'.
Can I find historical sites within the natural monuments around Benna?
Absolutely. The Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site is a prime example, where you can explore the traces of ancient Roman gold mining activities from over two millennia ago. Lake Bertignano also has historical significance, with ancient pirogues found there. Furthermore, the Climb to Oropa from Biella leads to the Sanctuary of Oropa, a UNESCO World Heritage site with deep religious and cultural history.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The area around Benna offers diverse outdoor activities. You can explore various routes for gravel biking, cycling, and mountain biking. For instance, there are routes like the 'Cervo Badlands – Cervo Stream Badlands loop' for gravel biking, or the 'Baraggia di Candelo MTB Circuit' for mountain biking. You can find more details on these activities in the Gravel biking around Benna, Cycling around Benna, and MTB Trails around Benna guides.
Are there any nature reserves close to Benna?
Yes, the region is home to significant nature reserves. The Baraggia di Candelo – Baragge Nature Reserve is a protected natural area with unique habitats including moorland and wooded areas. The Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site is also part of a Special Natural Reserve, showcasing ecological succession in a historically modified environment.
What kind of wildlife can be found in the natural monuments area around Benna?
The natural monuments and surrounding areas are rich in biodiversity. In the Oasi Zegna, a vast protected mountain area nearby, you can spot fauna such as foxes, chamois, and roe deer, and it's known for the rare Carabus olympiae beetle. The Riserva Naturale Mont Mars, an alpine reserve, is home to marmots, chamois, alpine hares, wild boars, and birds like golden eagles and partridges.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Benna?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring brings vibrant rhododendron blooms in areas like Oasi Zegna, while autumn offers stunning foliage. For hiking in alpine areas like Mont Mars, summer and early autumn are ideal. The historical sites like Bessa can be visited year-round, though pleasant weather makes for a more enjoyable experience.
Are there any viewpoints offering panoramic scenery?
Yes, several locations provide excellent views. Lake Bertignano offers serene vistas. The Climb to Oropa from Biella leads to the Sanctuary of Oropa, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Oasi Zegna is also renowned for its 'Panoramica Zegna' road, offering stunning views of the Biellese Alps.
What makes the Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site unique?
The Bessa Gold Mining Archaeological Site is unique because it's a landscape entirely shaped by ancient Roman gold mining. The vast mounds of stones, resembling 'lunar landscapes,' are the discarded remnants of this two-millennia-old extraction process. It's a fascinating blend of human history and nature, where flora and fauna have reclaimed the land between these historical formations.
Can I combine a visit to a natural monument with a cultural or religious site?
Yes, you can. The Climb to Oropa from Biella is a perfect example, leading to the Sanctuary of Oropa, a significant Marian pilgrimage site and UNESCO World Heritage site, nestled within a beautiful natural mountain setting. This allows you to experience both natural beauty and profound cultural heritage.
What is the Oasi Zegna and what does it offer?
Oasi Zegna is a vast protected mountain area in the Biellese Alps, known for its commitment to harmonizing human activity with nature. It features the scenic 'Panoramica Zegna' road, rich biodiversity with diverse flora and fauna, and numerous paths for hiking and mountain biking. It's an inspiring example of sustainable development, offering a perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
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