The town of Ormea is situated at 750 metres above sea-level. It is right in the middle of the Ligurian Alps, on a southern-facing slope.
A ruined castle stands above the old town, which is shaped in the unusual form of a heart and provides the centre of activity for the valley.
Via Roma, the town’s lively shopping street, constitutes the main hub of the town.
The "Trevi" are an intricate maze of little alleys winding all through the old part of the town. These can be accessed either from Via Roma or the ring-road.
As you wander around, you will come across little squares unchanged over the centuries and hidden corners which recall the town’s past. It is certainly worth visiting the Ethnographic Museum, the Castle ruins and the hill of San Mauro, as well as the house of the Marquis of Ormea and the Church of San Martino. Have a look at the recent murals painted on the walls and facades of the houses which depict some of the history and legends of the valley. You will also see many statues made from the black marble which is typical of Ormea. Notice the ingenious method for cleaning the streets, called the “biale”: a system of sluices used to flood the streets, which were combined with metal bulkheads to direct the water until the whole town centre was thoroughly cleaned.

Click here to see a map of the old centre and to go on a virtual tour.