Vercelli is a city located in the northern part of Italy, specifically in the region of Piedmont. It is known for its rich history, dating back to Roman times, and is one of the oldest cities in the region. Vercelli is famous for its rice production, often referred to as the "rice capital" of Italy, due to the fertile plains surrounding it. The city features several historical landmarks, including the Basilica di Sant'Andrea, a notable example of Romanesque architecture. Vercelli also hosts the Vercelli Book, one of the oldest known manuscripts in the Italian language, highlighting its cultural significance in literature and history.