Millesimo

Welcome to Millesimo!

Hello everyone! Today we'll talk about Millesimo, a town in the province of Savona in Liguria, where about 3156 people live. The name may vary depending on the language or dialect: ''Mrexo'' in Alta Val Bormida dialects, ''Mëleso'' in Piedmontese and ''Millëximo'' in Ligurian.

Physical geography

Millesimo is located in the upper Val Bormida and the main urban center is located on the right bank of the Bormida river, which in this area takes the name of Bormida di Millesimo. Part of the municipal territory is part of the Bric Tana Regional Natural Park, an ideal area for nature lovers and outdoor activities.

Thousandth: between history, culture, and nature in Liguria.

History

Millesimo has a long history dating back to Roman times. In fact, archaeological finds dating back to the 1st and 2nd centuries AD have been found, such as the votive arula near the church of Santa Maria fuori le mura. The primitive village of Millesimo may have been an outpost of the Roman Empire. However, during the 10th century, Millesimo was subjected to numerous Saracen attacks and made a fiefdom by the Aleramici family. In the 12th century, it became part of Savona, and was later made a fiefdom by Henry I of Carretto. His son, Marquis of Marchesato di Finale, built the walls around the village and the castle of Millesimo. It is said that the date of construction of the walls, November 9, 1206, is the date of the foundation of Millesimo. This Carretto initiative gave impetus to the economic and social development of the country, to which the marquises granted statutes and privileges from 1240.

The terziere of Millesimo and its division

In 1268, the three grandsons of Henry II divided the Marchesato di Finale into terzieri. The terziere of Millesimo became a fiefdom of the Del Carretto marquis and included Saliceto, Cengio, Rocchetta Nervina, Roccavignale, Mallare, Altare, Osiglia and Gottasecca. Conrad, grandson of Henry II, was also a pro-quota lord of Cosseria, Cairo Montenotte, Bagnasco, Abbazia di Fornelli and Carcare. However, in 1345, Conrad's domains were divided among his grandsons. Del Carretto received Millesimo, Mallare, Altare, Roccavignale and a part of Cosseria, while Conrad became Marquis of Saliceto, Camerana, Gottasecca, Paroldo and Cengio.

The cultural heritage of Millesimo

Millesimo is rich in cultural heritage, such as the church of Santa Maria fuori le mura, which houses valuable frescoes from the Carretto period. Also worth a visit is the church of San Giovanni Battista, one of the oldest in Millesimo. There are also cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Palio di Millesimo, a historical reenactment that takes place every September, where challengers from various districts of the city compete in various disciplines.

Daily life in Millesimo

Millesimo is a quiet town, where life flows slow and serene. The inhabitants are friendly and welcoming, and a family atmosphere pervades. There are no shortage of crafts shops and local products, such as the prized Montebore cheese. In addition, the surrounding area offers many outdoor activities such as walks, mountain biking excursions and nature trails.

Conclusions

In conclusion, Millesimo is a little hidden gem in the heart of the province of Savona, where history, culture and nature blend into a single reality. The people are welcoming, traditions are still alive and the atmosphere is relaxing. If you are looking for a place to escape from the stress of everyday life, Millesimo is the perfect destination for you!

Laura De Luca
Wrote by Laura De Luca
Updated Wednesday, Apr 6, 2022