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We flew to Milan, then took the train to Alessandria, the beginning of our bike trip.

Alessandria is in the Piemonte Region of Italy, and is the capital of the Province of Alessandria.

The city has beautiful squares, a large pedestrian zone in the old town, including

a large , central Square or Piazza, and is famous for the manufacture of hats,

including the world renown company Borsalino.

We felt like we were the only American or even English speaking tourists here!

About the only tourism is the wine tours, with mostly German tourists.

We felt like locals after a couple of days, and even discovered local restaurants!

ABOVE - Alessandria Cathedral on the Piazza del Duomo

ABOVE RIGHT and BELOW - Alessandria sights on our walk just before sunset on the first day

BELOW - Piazza Guiseppe Garibaldi

BELOW - Cathedral of San Pietro Apostale, originally built in 1170,

was rebuilt in 1281 - 1297, demolished by Napoleon, then rebuilt in the 13th and 14th century,.

It was finally declared in need of restoration at the end of the 20th century,

and completely restored in 2006

BELOW - Palazzo Comunale. We hit a few more places on our second day.

This city was founded in 1168, and is still impressive.

BELOW - Let's go shopping in the pedestrian zone of the old town!
 

BELOW - Every new street is a surprise

ABOVE - The chocolatyest gelato we've ever encountered!

BELOW - A little wine from the Barola region and Tiramisu

and a building at the Piazza della Liberta at night.

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