Moretta
Welcome to Moretta: the town of the Cozie Alps
Welcome to Moretta, a municipality located in the northern area of the Cuneo province, in Piedmont, with a population of 4061 inhabitants. The municipality is surrounded by the Cozie Alps and is strategically located between the Po and Varaita rivers, about 40 kilometers from Turin, the capital of the region.
Discover the origin of Moretta's name
There are several theories about how Moretta's name was chosen. Some historians believe that the toponym derives from "moreta," the name given in Piedmontese to the land where mulberry trees were planted for silk production. This hypothesis is based on the municipal coat of arms, which features a mulberry tree, and on the motto "Natura perficitur arte," which alludes to silk production. However, other historical documents indicate that the name Moretta was already present before the spread of silk production in Piedmont. Another possible theory associates the name with the Saracen invasions of the 10th century, but there is little concrete evidence to support this. The most accredited theory suggests that the name is a diminutive form of "morra," which in Piedmontese indicated the rural stations of Benedictine monks with their flocks.
The history of Moretta
Moretta was a stopping place for the monks of the Abbey of S. Maria di Cavour already before the year 1000, but tombs from the Roman era suggest that the area was inhabited earlier. In the 12th century, the territory of Moretta was annexed to the domains of the Marquis of Busca. Later, the fief passed to the Pasella family, who began the construction of the castle that still dominates the center of the town. In 1362, the territory of Moretta became a fief of the Solari Counts of Asti, then passing to the House of Savoy after the Peace of Cateau-Cambrésis in 1559. In 1860, Moretta joined the Kingdom of Italy. In the 19th century, the town became famous for the construction of a modern dairy company.
Must-see experiences in Moretta
Moretta offers several attractions not to be missed. The Pasella Castle is a historical attraction dating back to the 12th century and was built by the homonymous family. The Church of San Giovanni Battista is another historical attraction of Moretta, whose construction dates back to the 14th century. The city center also offers delicious places to eat, such as the Trattoria alla Stazione.
Enjoy the landscape
Moretta's location immerses it in the beauty of the Cozie Alps and the Po Valley, creating a unique natural environment. The area offers many hiking or biking excursions, as well as seasonal sports activities such as skiing in winter and kayaking in summer.
Conclusions
Moretta, the town of the Cozie Alps, is an alpine municipality located in Piedmont, a region rich in culture and history. With its strategic location between the Po and Varaita rivers and the view of the mountains, Moretta offers visitors a unique experience. With historical attractions such as the Pasella Castle and the Church of San Giovanni Battista, and outdoor activities such as walks and skiing, Moretta is a perfect destination for those looking for a combination of culture and nature.
