Avigliana: A Charming Piedmontese Town with Natural Beauty
Located in the heart of the Susa valley, Avigliana is a picturesque town in the Metropolitan City of Turin, Italy. With a population of 12,129 residents as of January 2023, this charming municipality offers a tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings. The town's proximity to Turin, just west, makes it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful retreat from city life.
One of Avigliana's most striking features is its two majestic maar lakes, Lago Grande and Lago Piccolo. These serene water bodies provide breathtaking scenery and offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The town's natural beauty is further enhanced by the nearby Sacra di San Michele, a massive and historic abbey perched atop a hill.
While Avigliana may not boast an extensive array of amenities, scoring B- in this category, it still offers essential services and facilities for its residents. Commuting to Turin or other surrounding areas is relatively convenient, with the town located along the motorway connecting Turin to Modane, France, earning a score of B-. However, Avigliana's health services are somewhat limited, resulting in a C+ score.
The town's cultural scene also receives a C+ rating, reflecting its smaller size and more laid-back atmosphere. Nevertheless, Avigliana still hosts various community events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its rich history and traditions. For families with children, Avigliana offers decent childcare and educational options, scoring B-, but may not provide the same level of diversity as larger cities.
Interestingly, Avigliana has a relatively low NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) score of B+, indicating that residents are generally open to new developments and changes in their community. Noise pollution is also moderate, with a B- rating, likely due to the town's distance from major highways and industrial areas.
In summary, Avigliana presents an idyllic blend of natural beauty, history, and community charm. While it may not offer all the amenities or services of larger cities, its serene atmosphere and stunning lakes make it an attractive choice for those seeking a more relaxed pace of life.