Calosso
Welcome to Calosso: a dive into the history of Piedmont
Calosso, known as Calòss in Piedmontese, is a municipality of 1212 inhabitants located in the province of Asti, at the heart of Piedmont. Besides the beauty of its natural landscapes, Calosso boasts a millennium-long history and monuments of great historical and architectural interest. In this article, we will dive into the history of the town, its monuments, and the symbols that identify it.
History
The first documented mention of the town dates back to 960, citing a certain Arimanno de Calocio as a witness to a land exchange. In the 12th century, Calosso became part of the consortile of Acquosana with the lords of other minor fiefs in the area. In 1318, the town was involved in the civil war between the Solaro Guelfs and the De Castello Ghibellines. The Guelfs destroyed the castle of Calosso, which was later reconstructed. In 1377, the entire fiefdom passed to the Asti noble banker Percivalle Roero, who later gave control to Valentina Visconti, who married Louis of Orléans in 1387. The county of Asti thus became a French possession. In 1531, Calosso passed to the House of Savoy and was constantly occupied by various armies during the War of the Monferrato Succession. With the Peace of the Pyrenees in 1659, Calosso lost its strategic importance, and the castle became the country residence of the Roero family.
Monuments and places of interest
The Castle of Calosso is the emblem of the town. Its imposing silhouette dominates the hill between the valleys of Nizza and Tinella. Built for defense from invasions, today it presents itself as a beautiful example of fortified architecture in the area, with impressive towers and walls. Inside is the Church of San Martino, already mentioned in 1203. The Castle of Calosso is a must-visit for those who tour the area.
The Tower of Marcoratto is instead one of the best-preserved medieval towers in Piedmont. It is an imposing structure that has remained intact over time. From the top of the tower, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the surrounding area.
The Church of San Giovanni Battista is another place of great historical and artistic interest. Dating back to the 17th century, it is a beautiful example of Baroque religious architecture. Inside, numerous paintings and works of art can be admired.
Symbols
The coat of arms and banner of the municipality of Calosso were granted in 1999. The Asti cross is accompanied by a wheel, a symbol of the Roero family. These symbols represent not only the history of Calosso but also its identity and cultural roots.
Conclusions
Calosso is a town that deserves to be visited for its natural beauty and rich history. The Castle, the Tower of Marcoratto, and the Church of San Giovanni Battista are just some examples of historical monuments that Calosso offers. The town's millennium-long history and symbols represent its cultural identity and its importance in the historical context of Piedmont. Calosso is a perfect destination for those who love history, art, and the beauty of nature.
