Alessandria is located in the alluvial plain between the rivers Bormida and Tanaro. The city was officially founded in 1168 with its own name to honor Pope Alexander III. From the historic point of view it passes through the Lombard League to alliances and fights with Genoa, and then under the Viscontis, Sforzas and Savoias rule. It was under the Savoia family and then under Napoleon, that Alessandria's strategic and military character developed, together with its role as a trade crossroads in northern Italy.
Architectural masterpieces are Ghilini Palace, one of the most beautiful monument of the city with its elegant Baroque style, Town Hall Palace with its characteristic three dial clock and the weather-cock stolen from Casale in 1225, Cuttica Palace (XVII century) with its wonderful frescoed rooms.
The Town Library, Guasco Palace, the Cathedral, St. Alessandro parish church, St. Maria del Carmine church and St. Maria di Castello church with its unique bell-tower and cloister worth a visit too.