Cortemilia
Cortemilia: A Dive into Piedmontese History
If you are looking for a quiet and charming place to deepen your knowledge of Piedmontese history, Cortemilia is the perfect place for you! With just over 2000 inhabitants, this municipality located in the province of Cuneo in Piedmont will give you a unique and unforgettable experience.
Prehistory and Ancient Age
The history of Cortemilia begins long before the Christian era, with the presence of some stations attributable to the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods. Among the most interesting objects found in the area is an anterior part of a serpentinite axe dating back to the II/III millennium BC. Evidence of the existence of more or less temporary settlements of populations who inhabited this area as early as the VI to II millennium BC.
Roman Era
Subsequently, the territory of Cortemilia acquires strategic and economic importance in the Roman Republic, so much so as to be chosen as the founding place of Aquae Statiellae (Acqui Terme) and Alba Pompeia. The layout and construction of the famous Via Aemilia Scauri, which connected Luni to Vada Sabatia (Savona), also passed through Cortemilia. Here, according to a rathercredited hypothesis, there was a pre-existing village of Ligurian Statielli conquered or romanized in a pact form. The original nucleus of Cortemilia is probably of pre-Roman origin and the consular administration was grafted onto it, although there are no direct testimonies of this process in written documents.
Middle Ages
During the Middle Ages, Cortemilia assumes a political and commercial role of relevance, thanks to its location at the confluence of two valleys and at least four communication directions. The presence of important communication routes towards Alba, Acqui Terme, and Liguria, led the territory of Cortemilia to be chosen as the place of settlement for numerous economic activities.
Places to Visit
The Civic Museum "Federico Eusebio" of Alba
To deepen your knowledge of the history of the area, do not miss the Civic Museum "Federico Eusebio" of Alba. Here you can admire interesting works of art, including the artifacts found in the area, such as the funerary stele of Naevius Camilius Montanus, found in the 60s in Cortemilia, and the stele of Quinto Valerio, tribune of the Tribus Camilia.
The Church of St. John the Baptist
The Church of St. John the Baptist is a very important place of worship for the citizens of Cortemilia. This church dates back to the 14th century and was rebuilt over the following centuries, reaching its current form.
The Castle of Rocca dei Corvi
On the outskirts of the municipal territory of Cortemilia, we find the Castle of Rocca dei Corvi. This castle dates back to the 11th century and has been the subject of numerous historical events. During the Second World War, in fact, it was used as a refuge by many citizens of Cortemilia and its surroundings.
The Sanctuary of San Magno
The Sanctuary of San Magno, located on Mount Lago, is another popular tourist destination for visitors to Cortemilia. Here, in the past, impressive pilgrimages were organized that attracted faithful from all over the area.
What to Eat in Cortemilia
If you are a food enthusiast, Cortemilia is the ideal place for you! Here, in fact, you can taste some of the finest Piedmontese products.
Hazelnuts
The hazelnuts of Cortemilia, famous throughout Italy, are one of the area's flagship products. They are used in many preparations, from sweet to savory, and are particularly appreciated for their intense flavor.
Moscato d'Asti
Moscato d'Asti is a sweet white wine produced with muscat grapes grown in the Cortemilia area and surroundings. The taste is intense and aromatic, perfect to accompany meals or to be enjoyed in a moment of relaxation.
Cheeses
The Cortemilia area is also famous for its cheeses, among which the Robiola of Roccaverano stands out. This cheese is produced with goat and/or sheep milk and has a slightly spicy flavor and intense aroma.
Conclusions
Cortemilia is a magical place where you can discover the history of the area, admire monuments and works of art, and taste the finest products of the territory. If you are looking for a place to spend a few days in total relaxation and immerse yourself in Piedmontese culture, Cortemilia is the destination for you!
