Cereseto
Welcome to Cereseto: Presentation of the Town and Its Geographical Position
Cereseto is a municipality located in the province of Alessandria, in the Piedmont region. The village is part of the territory of Monferrato Casalese and is located 280 meters above sea level. The surface area of the municipality extends over 1040 hectares and is dominated by the imposing castle that rises on the hill. Cereseto is located on the right side of the major communication road that connects the cities of Asti and Casale Monferrato. In this article, you will discover the history of the town of Cereseto, its origins and the most interesting information about life in this locality.
The History of Cereseto: From Origins to the Formation of the Small Fiefdom
According to scholars, the town of Cereseto arose between 500 and 600 AD in the area of Via San Tommaso and Via San Grato. At this point in the village, there was a kiln where clay was kneaded and bricks were extracted. The oldest papers preserved at the Capitol Archive of the Cathedral of Asti, dating back to 957, mention that the Bishop of Asti, Bruningo, exchanged some immovable property located in Cagliano, Serralunga, and in the Sabadina Valley for Eldeprando di Cortecomaro, obtaining other properties located on the territories of Cortecomaro in return. Cereseto was therefore a small fiefdom with very ancient origins. In May of 999, a document was drawn up that is probably the oldest source that mentions the town of Cereseto: a "diploma" by Otto III in which the properties belonging to the Episcopal Curia of the city of Vercelli were confirmed; the document also contains the names of the followers of King Arduino of Italy (Marquisate of Ivrea), including "Graseverto de Cirisido." In a document dating back to 1003, when there was Bishop Pietro in Asti, a certain Graseverto was mentioned as the "extimator" of a property swap. Other information can be found in a diploma of Henry II, which reads that Graseverto lived according to Lombard law and had sworn allegiance to the Emperor. In addition, some documents dating back to 1014 show that a certain Graseverto, probably a relative of the homonymous vassal, was punished by Emperor Henry II. Between 1002 and 1014, there was a struggle between King Arduino and the Emperor; both Pietro, Bishop of Asti, and Graseverto sided with King Arduino.
The Toponymy of Cereseto: The Origins of the Town Name
The town of Cereseto, in documents and parchments written from around the year 990, is named as "Cirisidum," "Cerisido," "Cirisito," "Cirisido," "Cerexeti," "Cireseto," and finally "Cereseto." The name of the town could come from the countless cherry trees that flourished on all the surrounding hills and among the vineyards (dialectal term ciresa).
Life in Cereseto Today
Today, Cereseto is a municipality of 409 inhabitants, and daily life takes place calmly and serenely. The town is known for its privileged position and the panorama it offers. The surrounding territory is rich in vineyards; indeed, wine production is the most important activity in the area. The town also has a strong tradition related to the cultivation of the land, which has given rise to the production of high-quality fruit and vegetables.
Events and Festivals in Cereseto
Throughout the year, many events take place in the town and its surroundings. On July 27 of each year, the patron saint's festival of San Pantaleone is celebrated, and a characteristic market is set up. At the end of September, the Grape Festival takes place, a food and wine exhibition where local producers showcase their products.
Cereseto and Its Splendid Castle
The castle of Cereseto, built on a hill to control the surrounding territory, is one of the symbols of the town. The structure is private and not open to the public; however, the view of the castle from the town is truly spectacular. Today, the castle is used as a private residence and for private events.
Tourism in Cereseto
Cereseto is a highly appreciated tourist destination for its strategic position and the beauty of the surrounding territory. The city of Alessandria, with its monuments and museums, is only 30 kilometers from the town. The city of Casale Monferrato, which is about 20 km from Cereseto, is also worth a visit. Nature lovers, on the other hand, can enjoy walks in the surrounding countryside, among vineyards and woods.
Conclusions
Cereseto is a small town with ancient and suggestive charm. Its very ancient origins are mixed with the wine tradition, which still constitutes the main activity of the place. The castle, a symbol of the town, dominates from the top of the hill on which the town stands and offers a breathtaking spectacle. Cereseto is the ideal place for those seeking peace and tranquility, but also for those who want to discover new flavors and traditions. Come and discover this corner of Piedmont; you won't regret it!
