Moncalvo
Moncalvo, between history and culture
Moncalvo is a municipality located in the heart of Monferrato, a region in Piedmont famous for its cultural, culinary, and viticultural richness. With just over 2,800 inhabitants, Moncalvo is a gem of the Asti hills, a city that stands out for its beauty and millennial history.
Physical geography
The territory of Moncalvo extends over a hill with an average altitude of 305 meters above sea level, located northeast of Asti, on the border with the province of Alessandria. The city is in a strategic position that makes it easily accessible from both Turin and Milan, thanks to the proximity of the SS 10 state road.
History
The origins of Moncalvo date back to the Roman period, but the city has undergone a series of foreign dominations over the centuries. Owned by the Church of Asti, the Graffagno family, and the Marquis of Monferrato, Moncalvo became the historical capital of Monferrato in the fourteenth century. Over the centuries, the city was occupied by several foreign troops until it passed under the rule of the Gonzaga of the Duchy of Mantua. Only in 1704, the city definitively passed under the control of the Savoy.
The symbols of the city
Today, the current coat of arms of the City of Moncalvo was granted by decree of the President of the Republic on November 15, 2006. The banner is a split flag of red and white, the colours of Monferrato.
Monuments and places of interest
Moncalvo offers a wide choice of monuments and places of interest, ranging from civil to religious architecture. Among the most well-known buildings are Palazzo Testafochi, the Town Hall, Palazzo dal Pozzo, and the Municipal Theatre, built on the site of the ancient Corpo di guardia.
Among the most important religious buildings are the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi, the Church of Sant'Antonio, and the Diocesan Sanctuary of Santa Teresa di Calcutta. Numerous works of art belonging to the Paduan Mannerism are stored inside these churches, including those of the famous Guglielmo Caccia, known as "il Moncalvo".
Social life
The social life of Moncalvo is animated by many cultural activities and events, which take place throughout the year. The city is characterized by the presence of a strong community of artists and craftsmen, capable of keeping local traditions alive and merging with new artistic ideas and trends of our time.
Demographic evolution
In recent years, the population of the city has slightly decreased, but despite this, Moncalvo remains an important and lively center of Piedmont's Monferrato. According to ISTAT data from 2009, the foreign population residing in the municipality was 288 people.
In conclusion, Moncalvo is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, a charming place to spend a vacation exploring Piedmont. The monuments, churches, cultural activities, and gastronomic traditions make this city unique and fascinating, a place to spend time with loved ones and friends.
