The town takes its name from one of the small rivers that flow through it, the Riofreddo, formerly the Rivus Frigidus. The town has always consisted of a single urban nucleus that is not divided into hamlets. Thanks to its sunny location, it hosts orchards and chestnut woods, proof of its excellent climate.

The Palazzo Comunale is one of the best preserved historical and architectural monuments in the country. Located in the centre, in Piazza della Vittoria, the building still flaunts its original beauty today: its false front, beautiful portico with pointed arch and large window on the first floor are some of the details dating back to the 15th century.

The ancient Monastero Femminile di Santa Maria della Stella, of which the façade of the church and some walls with interesting terracotta artefacts are still visible, is located in the Ciotte area. It was founded in 1219 by Agnese, daughter of the Marquis of Saluzzo Manfredi II, who, having been widowed, decided to devote herself to spiritual life.

Every year at the end of October, during “The nights of the witches”, thrill-seekers meet to relive the popular legends that tell of “masche”, women with supernatural faculties who are well-known figures of the Piedmontese popular tradition.  In 1495, the monastery itself was the site where Caterina Bonivarda and other local women were tried, accused of practising heresy and witchcraft. During the evening walk, the bravest attendees wander through the streets of Rifreddo, immersed in darkness for the occasion, accompanied only by a silent ghost armed with a wind torch, ready to meet witches and other strange creatures of the magical traditions of Mount Bracco.