Donato
Donato: a municipality in western Biella province
The municipality of Donato is a small town located at the western end of Biella province, just a few kilometers from the Valle d'Aosta and Canavese borders. With a population of only 709 residents, Donato is a peaceful and charming holiday destination surrounded by the greenery of the Piedmont region.
Physical geography
The municipality extends over an area of 12.94 km² and culminates with the 2,371 meters of the Colma di Mombarone, from whose southern slope the Viona stream originates. The latter represents the border between the province of Biella and Canavese for several kilometers. The landscape is largely dominated by hills, mountains, and forests, consisting of a single hamlet called "Donato" and numerous "roccoli," scattered rural settlements in the surrounding countryside.
History
Donato has a long history dating back to the Roman era when the settlement was chosen for its strategic location between Biella, Canavese, and Valle d'Aosta. Over the centuries, Donato was conquered by the bishops of Vercelli and later passed into the hands of the Vercelli family of Avogadro. In 1434, the land of Donato was sold to the bishop of Vercelli, along with the castles of Castello di Cerrione, Mongiovetto, Ponderano, Quaregna, Castello di Valdengo, Villa, and Zubiena. Later, the village passed through the hands of various noble families, such as the Perrone San Martino and the de Rege. In 1706, during the War of the Spanish Succession, the town was almost completely destroyed by French troops.
Symbols
The coat of arms of the municipality of Donato, recognized by the decree of the head of government of August 8, 1931, depicts two green deer in a golden field.
Society
Over the last hundred years, the population of Donato has decreased by over 50%. Despite this, the town still maintains a strong identity and sense of community compared to other parts of the Piedmont region.
Economy
Agriculture has been the main activity of Donato for a long time, but since the 20th century, the town has seen its tourist vocation emerge, thanks to its privileged location and natural beauty of the area. However, the town has not seen significant industrial development.
Administration
The municipality of Donato is part of the province of Biella and belonged in the past to the Alta Valle Elvo mountain community, abolished in 2009 and merged, together with the Bassa Valle Elvo mountain community, into the Valle dell'Elvo mountain community. The administrations that have succeeded over the years have tried to promote the development of the local community by promoting cultural and tourist initiatives.
Notes
Donato is a municipality characterized by its rich history and privileged location, making it an ideal place for a peaceful vacation in the Piedmont countryside. Despite its small population, it's possible to find a lively cultural life in the village thanks to various associations and events organized throughout the year.
