Domodossola is a city in the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola rich in history and ancient traditions that have roots dating back to prehistoric times. It well deserves a visit even just to admire Piazza Mercato, an authentic architectural jewel located few kilometres from Lago Maggiore.
Piazza Mercato represents the heart of the city and it has become a true symbol over time of Domodossola. Frequented and photographed by visitors in every season, it retains the atmosphere of an elegant city lounge, lively and welcoming. Stopping for a coffee in one of the many bars overlooking the square is a pleasure that offers a suggestive view of the historic centre with its buildings, towers and remains of the pentagonal city walls.
The square is reached by crossing cobbled alleys, flanked by buildings from the 15th and 16th centuries, embellished with porticoes, balconies and small loggias. The 15th century porticoes, elegant and full of charm, are supported by columns with decorated capitals, on which the coats of arms of the great Ossola families appear: De Rodis, Dalla Silva, Da Ponte and Ferrari. In the centre of the square there once stood the Town Hall, dating back to the 14th century and demolished in1805. On its top stood the so-called butter bell, which not only marked the hours but also regulated trading times, marking the end of the day for the farmers in the surrounding area.
The tradition of the Domodossola market, lively and colourful, has ancient origins and they are still renewed every Saturday, bringing visitors even from Switzerland. One of the main access roads to the historic centre is Via Briona, once known as Strada dei Mercanti (Merchants’ Street). Its houses with stone roofs and balconies supported by caryatids accompany the visitor up to the 14th century tower of the Palazzo del Vescovo (Bishop’s Palace), which still stands today as a tangible sign of the city’s history.