The village of Varzi, in the Upper Oltrepò Pavese, holds eight centuries of history that can still be felt today while walking through its streets. As early as Roman times, the area was inhabited by the Ligurians, but it was during the Middle Ages that Varzi began to emerge as an important center thanks to the Malaspina family. These feudal lords built castles, walls, and palaces, turning the village into a strategic hub along the famous “Via del Sale”, the ancient trade route connecting Genoa to Milan. With the decline of the Malaspina in the 14th century, power passed to the Visconti and later to the House of Savoy, who joined Varzi to Bobbio. During the Napoleonic era, the village suffered raids and looting, before being annexed to the Kingdom of Sardinia. Today Varzi is a municipality in the province of Pavia that keeps its past alive, among historical architecture and local traditions.

Walking through the historic center of Varzi means immersing yourself in an intact medieval atmosphere. The cobbled streets, defensive towers, and historic buildings tell stories of merchants, nobles, and craftsmen. Via del Mercato, with its double row of arcades built between the 14th and 16th centuries, was the economic heart of the village, while Via di Dentro, flanked by the Torre di Porta Sottana and the Torre di Porta Soprana, housed the most influential families and municipal offices. The Palazzo Malaspina, also known as the Tower of the Witches, is one of the most curious buildings, expanded over the centuries until the 18th. Equally fascinating is Vicolo Dietro le Mura, an evocative passage that crosses the old medieval defensive wall, topped by historic houses. Every corner of the village holds details and testimonies that make it an open-air museum.

Among Varzi’s gastronomic excellences, Salame di Varzi D.O.P. holds a place of honor. This cured meat has a long tradition dating back centuries and is still produced today following the ancient recipes handed down through generations. Its quality derives not only from the careful selection of meats but also from the unique climatic conditions of the Staffora Valley, ideal for natural aging. Artisan salumieri work the salami with skill, rigorously respecting each stage of preparation, from raw material selection to drying. The result is a high-quality product, fragrant and flavorful, which represents an identity symbol of the territory. Tasting Salame di Varzi means savoring a piece of history, a living tradition that is still a source of pride for the entire community.

Varzi is not only history and gastronomy: the village rises in one of the most fascinating natural corners of Lombardy. Located in the Staffora Valley, between the hills of the Oltrepò and the Ligurian Apennines, Varzi offers visitors breathtaking views and extraordinary biodiversity. Nature lovers can walk along the Staffora river, explore the woods, organize picnics, or embark on multi-day treks on foot, horseback, or mountain bike. Two major trails start right from Varzi: the historic Via del Sale, a network of medieval mule tracks leading to Portofino, crossing the Apennines; and the Via dei Malaspina, a section of the famous Via Francigena connecting Pavia to Bobbio. These paths are not only a sporting opportunity but also a cultural journey, discovering the ancient trade and spiritual routes of the area.

Varzi is a village alive all year round thanks to its characteristic events, which attract visitors and curious people from all over Lombardy and beyond. Among the most awaited events is the Festival of Salame di Varzi D.O.P., a must for lovers of good taste and local food and wine excellence: tastings, workshops, visits to producers, and many opportunities to discover the secrets of this unique product. Another highly evocative event is Varzi in Fiera, during which the village comes alive with open monuments, food stands, shows, and entertainment that transform the streets and squares into a large festive stage. These events represent the beating heart of local life, offering those who visit Varzi the opportunity to experience authentic moments, immersed in the history and liveliest traditions of the territory.