A village of 81 inhabitants in the Po Valley, recognized as one of Italy’s most beautiful towns, where wetland conservation and pastoral tradition intersect.
At a glance
Ostana is a small municipality in the province of Cuneo, in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. The village sits within the Po Valley landscape and has been designated among Italy’s most beautiful villages by the Tourism Council of the Association of Italian Municipalities (ANCI). Its character is shaped by the natural wetlands that dominate the surrounding territory.
History
The wetlands of Ostana have sustained pastoral activities throughout history, forming the economic and cultural foundation of the village. However, overexploitation of these resources led to environmental degradation and erosion. In response, municipal authorities undertook a comprehensive mapping initiative between 2014 and 2015 to develop a sustainable pastoral management model—one that would preserve local livelihoods while protecting the fragile wetland ecosystem.
What you see
Ostana’s landscape is defined by its wetlands and pastoral lands. The village reflects the vernacular architecture typical of small Piedmont settlements, adapted to the specific conditions of the Po Valley terrain.
Cultural significance
The village represents a living example of traditional Alpine and valley pastoral culture in contemporary Italy. Its recognition as one of the nation’s most beautiful villages acknowledges both its aesthetic character and its cultural heritage. The recent efforts to balance conservation with pastoral use demonstrate how small communities navigate the relationship between tradition and environmental stewardship.
Key facts
- Population: 81 inhabitants
- Address: 12030 Cuneo, Italy
- Coordinates: 44.6922553, 7.1897402
- Phone: +39 017594273
- Official website: https://www.comune.ostana.cn.it/
Practical information
Ostana is accessible by road from Cuneo. The official municipal website provides current information about services and local initiatives. Contact the town hall directly for details about visiting or local events.
Getting there
Ostana is located in the province of Cuneo in Piedmont. The nearest major cities are Cuneo and Turin. Regional roads connect the village to the broader Po Valley network. GPS coordinates are available for navigation.
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