Olcenengo

Olcenengo: an ancient Piedmontese municipality

If you are looking for a peaceful place steeped in history, Olcenengo is the right place for you. With its 786 inhabitants, this Piedmontese municipality still bears traces of its past, dating back to as early as 964 when it was mentioned in an official document for the first time.

History: the origins of Olcenengo

In the 1980s, Olcenengo was the subject of several archaeological excavations, which led to the discovery of artifacts dating back to the 3rd-4th century, attesting to the Roman presence in the area. The Avogadro family, one of the major noble families of Piedmont, was the first owner of the territory and built a castle in the 13th century, which today is incorporated into a farm and only preserves a tower and some parts of the city walls.

Olcenengo: history and tranquility in Piedmont

Symbols: the coat of arms of Olcenengo

The municipality of Olcenengo has a symbolic coat of arms, granted by a royal decree on June 10, 1929. The coat of arms represents the proximity to the Sesia river, which runs through the territory, and the field work in the area. The standard is a yellow cloth, granted in 1994.

Society: a decreasing population

In the last hundred years, the population of Olcenengo has halved, going from 1500 inhabitants in 1921 to 786 today. Despite this, the Olcenengo community is very active and organizes numerous events and festivals throughout the year.

Infrastructure and transport: the Via Francigena

The historic route of the Via Francigena passes through the municipal territory of Olcenengo, arriving from the sanctuary of Santhià and heading towards Vercelli. It is a path that crosses many Italian municipalities and is very popular with tourists for its historical and cultural significance.

Administration: Mayor Anna Maria Ranghino

Currently, the municipality of Olcenengo is headed by Mayor Anna Maria Ranghino, who was elected to lead the town in 2019 at the helm of a civic list. Ranghino is implementing numerous initiatives to enhance the territory and attract new residents and tourists.

Sport: football and rugby in Olcenengo

Despite its small size, Olcenengo has many sports associations, including the U.S. Olcenengo Football Club, which plays in the Vercelli CSI amateur championship, and the historic Rugby Sant'Andrea, which has served as a launching pad for many young enthusiasts of this sport.

Conclusion: Olcenengo, a jewel to be preserved

Olcenengo is truly a special municipality in Piedmont, with an extraordinary past and a welcoming and warm population. If you want to escape the stress of the city and immerse yourself in history and nature, Olcenengo is the right place for you. What are you waiting for? Discover this splendid municipality and be enchanted by its beauty!

Davide Neri
Wrote by Davide Neri
Updated Friday, Feb 17, 2023