Ferriera
Welcome to Ferriera!
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about a hamlet of the municipality of Buttigliera Alta in Piedmont: Ferriera. Located just 2 km from the municipal capital and 340 meters above sea level, it is an area of considerable interest from a historical and industrial architectural point of view.
The Foundation of Ferriera
Ferriera was founded in 1891 by a family of French entrepreneurs, the Vandel family. At that time, it was a rural area very close to the Dora Riparia river and the newly born Frejus railway. The main reason why the Vandel family chose this place was the proximity to France, well connected by the Moncenisio road and the Frejus railway. In addition, hydraulic energy was easily available thanks to the proximity to the Dora.
The Construction of the Plant
Julien Vandel immediately began construction of the plant, north of the Moncenisio road, which initially produced nails for shoes, target pointers, and iron wire. The machines were powered by three water turbines. North of the current Corso Susa, adjacent to the production site, there were the company's management, offices, and a shop with a bread oven.
The Village for the Workers
South of the Moncenisio road, Vandel built Ferriera's residential area: a village to host all the workers necessary for the functioning of the company. The Villa for the Vandel family and six houses for workers were built, bridging the current via Ferdinando Gatta.
The Development of Ferriera
Over the years, Ferriera has undergone several transformations and has seen the construction of new buildings. In 1913, the new church of Sant'Anna, the parish of Ferriera, was inaugurated. In 1934, a new bridge over the Dora Riparia river was also built, which allowed Ferriera to connect to the metropolitan city of Turin.
The Historical and Cultural Heritage of Ferriera
Thanks to its history linked to industrial production, Ferriera possesses a unique historical and cultural heritage. In Ferriera, you can visit the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions of Buttigliera Alta, which collects many objects and tools that testify to the daily life of the people of the area. Additionally, you can visit the Ferriera Educational Activities Center, which organizes didactic workshops for schools and families.
Outdoor Activities in Ferriera
Ferriera is also the ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts. From the hamlet, numerous paths depart that will take you to the discovery of the nature and flora of the surroundings. Additionally, you can visit the nearby Natural Park, where you can sunbathe or engage in activities such as jogging or cycling.
Ferriera's Gastronomy
If you are a lover of good food, Ferriera will not disappoint you. The hamlet is famous for its typical products, such as veal meat and cornmeal polenta. Additionally, you can enjoy the region's finest wines and traditional sweets, such as bugie or baci di dama.
Conclusions
In short, Ferriera is an alluring and interesting hamlet to visit. If you want to discover the charm of industrial architecture and the beauty of Piedmontese nature, do not miss the opportunity to visit Ferriera. We are waiting for you!
