The town has a long history, dating back to ancient times, when Lepontierne, which is believed to have Celtic roots, settled in the area. Domodossola is well located between Italy and Switzerland, and from here you can easily get to other cities like Zermatt, Lugano, Como and Milan and Monte Cervino and Lago Maggiore. Milan Malpensa Airport is the closest, but a train journey here and through the Bernina Pass is definitely worth trying. Especially the local train service between Domodossola and Locarno in Switzerland, which winds itself through about 52 km stunning mountain landscapes. In winter you can go grazy in the ski resort of Domobianca with about 21 km of slopes in all four levels of difficulty. Moreover you'll find here Europe's longest illuminated night piste! It was in connection with the Winter Olympics in Turin in 2006 and the lighted piste is open every Friday 19:00 to 23:00 (subject to change).
All togehter the town has about 19,000 inhabitants and after the Bernina Pass was inaugurated in the year 1906, the Domodossola become an important hub for travelers and traders on both sides of the Alps. Historically, the city has also been of great strategic importance. During the WW2, the inhabitants fought against fascism and declared itself independent in a short period, after which the Germans cracked down the uprising. The very fierce uprising however, was important and stood as an example for the rest of the Occupied Italy.
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The most interesting part of the city is the historic center with charming archways and marketplace. Every saturday a big market is held and has been existing since the year 917. Another interesting experience is Via Briona with the old tower and the historic area Motta with its winding and cobbled streets. Other important places to visit you in Terme di Premia (a health resort in the middle of the mountain landscape), Parco Naturale del Dovero (a protected natural area where you can hike with the kids, explore nature and take lunch in the open air).
Outside the city there is the "Domodossolas holy mountain" Mattarella. The mountain is one of nine sacred mountains of Piedmont and Lombardy, which is included in the UNESCO list of sites worth of preservation. On the Holy Mountain (Sacro Monte) you will find Mattarella Castle, a convent, 15 chapels and other religious sights.
