~31,000
Population
Piedmont
Region
Cuneo
Province
Tanaro
River
Roman Era
Founded
Creative City for Gastronomy
UNESCO Status
Our Sister City
Perched on the banks of the Tanaro River in northwest Italy, Alba is a city that perfectly blends ancient history with modern vitality. Located in the Piedmont region, south of Turin and nestled among the rolling Langhe hills, Alba has been Medford's sister city since 1960.
Like Medford, Alba is a regional center surrounded by agricultural beauty. Where we have pear orchards and vineyards, they have hazelnuts and some of the world's finest wine grapes. The similarities our founders saw in 1960 remain true today.
What Alba is Famous For
Nutella & Ferrero
Alba is the birthplace of Nutella and home to Ferrero SpA, one of the world's largest chocolate manufacturers. Ferrero Rocher, Kinder, and Tic Tacs all come from here.
World-Class Wines
Barolo and Barbaresco are among Italy's most prestigious wines. The Langhe hills surrounding Alba produce wines that command premium prices worldwide.
White Truffles
The famous Alba White Truffle can command prices as high as $4,000 per pound. The annual truffle festival draws visitors from around the globe.
Ancient History
Founded in Roman times as Alba Pompeia, the city is known as "The City of 100 Towers." During WWII, it declared itself the "Free Republic of Alba."
What Students Experience
During their two weeks in Alba, exchange students immerse themselves in Italian culture through organized activities and daily family life.
Ferrero Factory Tour
Visit the birthplace of Nutella and Ferrero Rocher. Students get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world's largest chocolate manufacturers.
Alba Underground
Explore ancient Roman ruins beneath the modern city streets. Over 2,000 years of history lie beneath your feet.
Castle Visits
Tour medieval castles dotting the Langhe hills, each with its own story of nobility, intrigue, and winemaking tradition.
Cathedral Tours
Visit Alba's stunning cathedral and other historic churches that showcase centuries of Italian artistry.
Flag Throwing Exhibitions
Watch the traditional Sbandieratori perform breathtaking flag throwing displays, a centuries-old tradition.
Winery Visits
Tour the vineyards that produce Barolo and Barbaresco, two of Italy's most prestigious wines.
School Visits
Experience Italian education firsthand by attending classes with your host sibling.
Family Life
The most meaningful experience: daily life with your Italian family, sharing meals, traditions, and laughter.
Getting There
Students typically fly into Rome, spend a day or two exploring the Eternal City, then take the high-speed train to Turin. From Turin, it's a short drive to Alba where host families eagerly await.
The journey is part of the adventure. Many students have never flown internationally before, and the train ride through the Italian countryside gives them their first taste of European travel.
Learn About the Exchange Program
Vinum Alba
Each year, Alba hosts Vinum, a major wine fair celebrating the wines of Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato. Committee members have had the rare opportunity to join Alba friends at this prestigious event.
The connection between our "Taste of Alba" event in Medford and the Vinum celebration in Alba demonstrates how our sister city relationship extends beyond the student exchange.
Visit Vinum Alba WebsiteExperience Alba for Yourself
Join the student exchange program and discover why Alba has been Medford's beloved sister city for 65 years.
Apply for the 2026/27 Exchange