The origins of Vercelli remain unknown. Initially the area was inhabited by a population of Liguria lineage, then came the Celts and subsequently the Romans who named the city Vercellae.

Since ancient times Vercelli was an important crossroads for communication and trade between Italy and the rest of Europe. In Roman times the city was already an important reference point for travelers and in the Middle Ages it became one of the most important milestones along the Via Francigena.

The medieval towers show the travelers the right way towards the artistic beauty of the city. The numerous churches of Vercelli, thanks to which the city has been called "the city of 100 steeples", conserve authentic treasures.

The province of Vercelli has a varied territory. From the rice paddies around the city, along the Sesia River, up to the Alps of which the most important is the summit of Monte Rosa.

Tourists from all over the world visit Vercelli every year not only to enjoy its artistic heritage but also for all the sport activities. The Valsesia area offers everything from kayaking, rafting, and riverboarding (hydrospeed) on the river Sesia to skiing and excursions in the Alps nearby or even, for the most fearless,  ice-climbing up  frozen waterfalls and paragliding.