San Michele
San Michele di Cervasca: a small town at the base of the San Maurizio sanctuary
San Michele di Cervasca, also known as La Villa by its inhabitants, is a hamlet of the municipality of Cervasca in the province of Cuneo. It is located at about 704 m above sea level, at the base of the San Maurizio sanctuary, dedicated to the fallen alpine soldiers from Cuneo who fought in Russia. The town is divided by the main road that separates the municipality of Cervasca from that of Vignolo.
Near the church dedicated to the archangel Saint Michael, built in the early 19th century, stands an ancient palace that once housed the municipal headquarters of Cervasca and is now the A.C.L.I. center of the village. As you continue towards the capital, you can admire the oldest church in the area, dedicated to the Madonna del Belvedere.
The Legend of Prato Gaudino
San Michele di Cervasca is located near a "ghost town" called Prato Gaudino, known in Piedmontese as Pragudin. Legend has it that the inhabitants of this ghost town were forced to abandon their homes due to a terrible plague epidemic. It is said that the few survivors fled to the high mountain areas surrounding the town.
In the book "Il mondo dei vinti" by Nuto Revelli, published in the 1970s, the elderly residents of San Michele and Prato Gaudino tell their life stories, bringing to light the history and traditions hidden behind the ghost town.
Activities and Events
San Michele di Cervasca is a peaceful place and ideal for relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the pristine Alps. Highly appreciated by hikers, the area offers numerous opportunities for trekking and walking through forests, lakes, and mountain meadows.
During the summer, the locals organize various activities to entertain visitors, including food and wine festivals, patron saint festivals, and typical markets. In particular, the feast of the patron saint, Saint Michael the Archangel, is celebrated on September 29th with a solemn Mass followed by a procession that crosses the village with the saint's statue.
How to Reach San Michele di Cervasca
San Michele di Cervasca can be easily reached by car following the state road 21 of the Colle di Tenda. Alternatively, you can take the bus that connects the hamlet with the nearby cities of Cuneo and Mondovì. Those arriving by train can get off at the Cuneo station and take the bus to Cervasca from there.
Conclusion
San Michele di Cervasca, with its panoramic view of the mountains and its rural charm, represents an ideal destination for those who want to disconnect and enjoy contact with nature. With its long history, old traditions, and activities organized by its inhabitants, San Michele di Cervasca is a place full of charm and experiences to discover.
