Orbassano
Orbassano: A Town in Piedmont
Orbassano is a town located in the metropolitan area of Turin in Piedmont, Italy with a population of around 23,000 people. The city is divided in two parts by the Sangone river - the residential area located in the south and the industrial area of San Luigi, the Gonzole abbey, and the Si.To railway interport located in the north of the river. The only locality of Orbassano located outside of the residential area is called Tetti Valfré.
The Physical Geography of Orbassano
The 45th parallel runs through the residential area of Orbassano. It is a line equidistant between the North Pole and the equator. Despite the presence of the Sangone river, the area has mild and temperate climate, with warm summers and moderately cold winters.
History of Orbassano
The origin of the name Orbassano is uncertain, but it is believed to derive from "Urbis Sanus" in Latin, meaning "healthy city". This motto still appears on the town's coat of arms. However, other sources suggest that the name may have come from a Roman legionary named Urbicius, who settled in the area after ending his military career. Other epigraphic evidence found in the area suggests that the town already existed during the Roman period.
Orbassano came under the control of the Marquises of Susa in 1029 but became property of the diocese of Turin after 1035. In the 12th century, the city passed into the hands of the Orsini family, Lords of Rivalta in Turin. During this period, the district of Cascinette began to develop. After a series of conflicts between the Orsini family and the bishops of Turin, an agreement was reached in 1253. In 1327, Orbassano was feudated to the Savoy and assigned to the Lords of Rivalta. With the death of Lord Risbaldo Orsini, the family split into two branches: the Lords of the Upper Castle of Rivalta and the Lower Castle of Orbassano.
Attractions in Orbassano
Orbassano is a beautiful town with numerous attractions to visit. The Gonzole Abbey, built in the 11th century, is definitely one of the most beautiful places in the town. Today, the abbey has been transformed into a hospital and a psychiatric clinic, but it still preserves some of its ancient structures.
In addition, the Fiat Research Center, located in Cascina Mellano, is definitely worth a visit. This center was built in the 1970s and still remains one of the largest research centers in Italy.
Finally, Tetti Valfré, a locality situated just outside the residential area, deserves to be visited. This area is characterized by the elegance of its villas and the beautiful gardens that surround them.
Conclusion
Orbassano is a city located in a strategic position that offers numerous tourist attractions. Its fascinating history, places of interest, and breathtaking landscapes make it an excellent destination for a vacation or a short stay. The city is also famous for its production of typical Piedmontese products and fine wines. One cannot visit Orbassano without tasting its typical dishes, such as agnolotti, bagna cauda, and finanziera. Orbassano is waiting for you!
