On the edge of the Agogna river valley, overlooking Lake Orta, lies the characteristic rural area of Cascine di Ameno. Characterized by small rural villages, some nestled along the river, others immersed in the dense forest of unspoiled nature, the Cascine di Ameno area is dotted with ancient stone buildings and large, green pastures. In the villages of Pezzasco, Tacchino, Sculera, Milanetto, Tabarino, Lanciano, Barozzera, Cassano, and Pecorino, time seems to have stood still, preserving the integrity of a landscape made up of numerous well-maintained paths and mule tracks, ideal for long treks or mountain bike rides through the unspoiled woods. Several historical figures have visited the area: near the farmhouse of Barozzera, adjacent to the Oratory of the Holy Name of Mary, for example, is the house where Antonio Rosmini and Alessandro Manzoni loved to spend undisturbed periods of study. Opposite the Oratory of Sant’Antonio Abate, in Cassano, is the house where Giulio Pecora, Franciscan Patriarch of Constantinople, was born on June 24, 1727. Finally, on the façade of the Oratory of Sant’Eurosia in Sculera, there is a plaque commemorating the generous donation made by King Victor Emmanuel II of Savoy for the reconstruction of the hamlet after the terrible fire that completely destroyed it. A magical place rich in nature and history, the Cascine di Ameno area is the ideal destination for those who love to occasionally return to relive the atmosphere of times gone by.