Dorzano
Greetings from the Municipality of Dorzano
Hello everyone! Are you ready to discover one of the most beautiful municipalities in the province of Biella? We are pleased to welcome you here in Dorzano, a small village of 528 inhabitants surrounded by nature. Take a coffee and make yourself comfortable, let's start our journey to explore this corner of Piedmont.
Physical geography
Dorzano is located in a strategic position, at the borders of the Special Natural Reserve of Bessa and the hills of the Serra Morenica di Ivrea. Nestled between the limits of the Po Valley and the eastern slopes of the hill, the municipality offers a unique landscape, made up of green countryside and gentle hills. The town center is located along the former State Road 143 Vercellese and also extends to some scattered farms. The territory borders on the municipalities of Cavaglià, Salussola, Roppolo, and Carisio and its altitude ranges from 400 m of the hill to 210 of Brianco.
History
The history of Dorzano is ancient and fascinating. The name derives from the Latin term "Durzianum" and is linked to the Celtic tribes that inhabited these lands since the 3rd century AD. Remains from the Roman and Lombard era have been found in various locations in the area. In the 12th century, the counts of Cavaglià built a castle that played a strategic role in defending the valleys. Over the centuries, Dorzano was subject to various annexations and transfers, passing from the hands of the Avogadro to the Valperga dynasty and then to the Savoy family. In 1799, it was annexed to the Vercelli department and only at the end of the 18th century it obtained municipal autonomy. In 1992, it was finally merged into the Province of Biella.
Symbols
One of the symbols of Dorzano is the municipal coat of arms, granted in 1988. The design recalls the history of the town, with references to the counts of Cavaglià and Valperga. The presence of a key and a crucifix recalls the church of San Secondo, a symbol of local Christianity.
What to see in Dorzano
Dorzano is a small municipality but rich in attractions. Nature lovers can explore the Special Natural Reserve of Bessa, a protected area that extends for 1,613 hectares and hosts numerous species of flora and fauna. The hills around the village are perfect for hiking or cycling, while the Bosi lake, fed by the Zegna stream, is ideal for picnics and moments of relaxation.
For history enthusiasts, on the other hand, there is plenty of choice. The castle of Dorzano, built by the counts of Cavaglià in the 12th century, is one of the most important historical monuments in the town. The ruins of the church of San Secondo, once in the municipality of Salussola but now on the borders of Dorzano, are another interesting place to visit. Finally, for those who love sacred art, there is the parish church of Santa Maria Assunta, with a 17th-century baroque altar inside.
Events and traditions
In Dorzano, you can breathe an authentic and genuine atmosphere, made up of traditions and popular festivals. Among the most important events, there are the fair of San Rocco, which takes place in August in honor of the patron saint of the town, and the chestnut festival, a tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages and celebrates the fruit most loved by local populations.
Gastronomy
You cannot visit Dorzano without trying the typical dishes of Piedmontese cuisine. Here you can taste the "risotto alla baraggia", a first course of rice and vegetables typical of the area, or the "tajarin", a typical homemade fresh pasta. Among the most precious local products, there are the pralined chestnuts, sweet chestnuts covered with sugar and chocolate.
Conclusions
And so, our tour of Dorzano comes to an end. We hope to have made you better acquainted with this little paradise in the province of Biella. Don't forget to come and visit us in person to discover all the wonders that this land has to offer. We are waiting for you with the smile and warmth of Piedmontese hospitality!
