Ala

Ala has about 8,800 inhabitants and is among the main villages of this valley. The typical medieval urban arrangement of the "Villa Alta" is composed of majestic noble residences and elegant roads. Notable examples include Palazzo Angelini and Palazzo de' Pizzini where Napoleon and Mozart with his father stayed, among others. Here you can admire numerous wall paintings, stone portals and wrought iron balconies, vouching for an eventful past. North of Ala stands the majestic santuario di San Valentino, an ancient sanctuary which can be visited along the itinerary paralleling the ancient "strada romana", an ancient Roman road. Ala is also an ideal starting point for hikes to Monti Lessini, across the Valle di Ronchi and to Sega di Ala.

During the Middle Ages, Ala lived from commerce and markets. Some centuries later Ala became part of the Venetian Republic and began to focus on textile production which is why it is also known as "Ala, Città di Velluto" (the city of velvet). Every year Ala celebrates its precious sericulture, silk and the marvellous velvets produced. In summer, numerous events honour its long and important history.