Golferenzo at Italy’s most beautiful villages

Golferenzo is a small and charming medieval village located in Oltrepò Pavese, near the Emilia-Romagna border.
The settlement consists of the main town on a hill and hamlets at its foot.

A long history

The village was founded by Celtic peoples. According to some scholars, the place name is derived from the conjunction of the two Celtic words gora (“land”) and frin (“mountain”), indicating a “mountain village”. According to another hypothesis, the name derives from the Lombardic Wulfari (which might indicate a reference to an area inhabited by wolves), later Latinised to Gulfarius.
During the period of the Lombard kingdom, Golferenzo is mentioned among the possessions of the abbey of San Colombano di Bobbio.
In 1164, Frederick Barbarossa placed it under the rule of Pavia; at that time, the village probably already had a castle with autonomous jurisdiction. From the 14th century it was owned by the noble Pavian family of the Beccaria, first by the local branch descended from Messer Fiorello, then by the Montebello branch. In 1629, with the end of that lineage, the village passed to different owners until it was bought by the Dal Pozzo family, feudal lords of Soriasco.
In 1690, Golferenzo was sold to the powerful Belcredi family of the Lombard aristocracy, who held it until the end of the Second World War and elevated the fief to a marquisate. It formed one fief with Volpara and Montecalvo Versiggia.
Golferenzo has managed to keep much of its historic medieval architecture intact.

What to do and see in Golferenzo

Panoramic view

Panoramic views are among Golferenzo’s most fascinating features From the top of the hill, the village offers spectacular views of the valleys, the surrounding hills and, on particularly clear days, even the Alps.
Viewpoints, such as the Belvedere terrace, are perfect places to take photos and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Historic centre

The historic centre of Golferenzo is a real gem. Its cobbled streets and stone houses create a truly charming and evocative atmosphere.
Known for its breathtaking panoramic views and medieval atmosphere, visitors can discover picturesque nooks and crannies, artisan workshops and small restaurants serving traditional local dishes while strolling through the streets.
It is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.

Church of St Nicholas

St Nicholas Church is a historical and religious landmark. Built in the 17th century, the church has a simple yet elegant architecture thanks to the unmistakable profile of the tip of the bell tower. Inside the church, visitors can admire frescoes and works of sacred art.

Belcredi-Belloni Palace

Palazzo Belcredi-Belloni, located next to the church square, is a stately palace that now hosts works by various artists and food and wine events.

Events

The village is an important agricultural and viticultural centre thanks to its favourable location in the Oltrepò Pavese hills.
Agricultural traditions are still alive and reflected in local festivals and events celebrating the produce of the land and wine culture.

Every year, Golferenzo hosts:

🍷 Saxbere, a wine event in June, attracts many visitors from across the region and beyond.
The village streets come alive with tastings of local wines, food stalls and live music.
It is a chance to discover the authentic flavours of Oltrepò Pavese and immerse yourself in the conviviality of the village.

👩‍🍳 Convivium, a special evening in which the Oltrepò’s most prestigious restaurants participate by preparing traditional dishes in a modern twist, paired with local wines.

🎄 The Christmas markets with their characteristic wooden houses, lights, Christmas decorations and the ever-present Santa’s house. Christmas music and choirs complete the magic of Christmas. Golfernzo at Christmas is truly atmospheric.

Cellars and vineyards

Golferenzo is surrounded by vineyards producing excellent Oltrepò Pavese wines, including Pinot Nero, Metodo Classico sparkling wines, Pinot Grigio and Bonarda. Local wineries include Podere Scabini andAziendaAgricola Rampuzzi.

Local gastronomy

Golferenzo’s cuisine is closely linked to the traditions of the Oltrepò Pavese. Typical dishes include artisan smoked meats, aged cheeses, fresh pasta and grilled meats. Local restaurants use fresh, seasonal ingredients to create dishes that reflect the authentic flavours of the region, such as meat agnolotti 🥟.
Of course, there is no shortage of local wines, perfect to accompany any meal.
🍽️ You can enjoy local cuisine at restaurants such as Corte del Lupo l’ Olmo Napoleonico .

Activities

The village also has a large playground and an area equipped with wooden tables and benches.

Curosity

The Borgo, already known for its charm, was chosen in December 2021 as the setting for the filming of the promo The Ferragnez – The Series, a docureality about the life of Chiara Ferragni and Fedez. The hubbub of the event took Golferenzo’s fame to a national level.

Golferenzo enchants with its history, its wine events and the beauty of its landscape and village. It is an ideal destination all year round.