Camburzano
Camburzano: a commune in the heart of Piedmont
Camburzano is a small Italian commune located in the province of Biella, in Piedmont. With a population of 1,115 inhabitants, the village is characterized by an ancient history that has left numerous traces in its architecture and monuments. In this article, we will explore the origins of the name Camburzano, its history, monuments and places of interest, and much more.
## Origin of the name
The name "Camburzano" has several speculated origins. One theory suggests that the name derives from "Campus Burcianus," meaning "field of the Roman centurion Burcius," where tents were set up for garrison and slaves who worked in the nearby Bessa gold mines. Some sources hypothesize that the name may instead come from "Campo Sano," a place where crops enjoy excellent fertile soil and an ideal climate for various species of fruits and vegetables. The village's coat of arms, represented by three Roman tents, seems to lend more credibility to the first theory.
## History
During the Middle Ages, Camburzano was part of the territories belonging to the bishops of Vercelli. In 1165, the bishop Uguccione donated the lands to a noble family, the Avogadro di Cerrione. Two centuries later, in 1379, it became part of the possessions of the House of Savoy. In 1620, Giovanni Aurelio Arborio di Gattinara was the feudal lord and, subsequently, in 1722, the commune was handed over to Carlo Emanuele le Tettu.
### Symbols
The symbol of the Camburzano commune was granted by decree of the President of the Republic on April 21, 1999.
## Monuments and places of interest
Camburzano is characterized by numerous monuments and places of interest. One of the most representative is the medieval tower, which was part of a castle destroyed in the 15th century. Currently, the tower is in poor condition but is still an important symbol of the village. The parish church of San Martino, dating back to the 1200s, has undergone numerous additions and renovations over the centuries. It is embellished with valuable wooden sculptures and sacred furnishings of the 18th century and is flanked outside by the bell tower of 1867. The Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Grazie, dating back to the 17th century, contains a valuable wall painting from the same period.
## Society
The Camburzano commune has seen various demographic changes over the years. However, the village has always been characterized by a strong community that supports each other.
### Demographic evolution
## Infrastructure and transport
Camburzano had a stop along the Biella-Mongrando railway in the past, active between 1891 and 1951 and transformed into a tramline in 1922. There are also numerous roads to reach the village.
## Administration
Camburzano is part of the mountain community of Valle dell'Elvo and has been governed by different administrations over the years.
### Other administrative information
## Conclusion
In summary, Camburzano is a village with an ancient history and a strong community. Its monuments and places of interest are characterized by medieval architecture that reflects the era in which they were built. Camburzano is an ideal place for those seeking an authentic experience in a peaceful and picturesque area of Piedmont.
