Pamparato
Pamparato, among the mountains of Piedmont
Welcome to Pamparato, a town of 289 inhabitants located in the province of Cuneo, in Piedmont. The village is situated in an entirely mountainous area, at an altitude of 816 meters above sea level. The area is classified as seismic zone 3A, so the risk of earthquakes is low. Pamparato includes several hamlets, including Serra, Valcasotto, Arotte, Surie and Tagliante.
The town's climate has been classified as zone F, which means the heating requirement is 3327 degree days. Currently, there are no limits on the use of heating systems.
The origin of the name
The name Pamparato derives from the Latin phrase "panis paratus" (ready bread), perhaps linked to the fertility of the land and the easy production of food. However, there is also a legend that tells another version of the name's origin. It is said that during Saracen raids, the inhabitants of Pamparato fed their dogs with a loaf of bread seasoned with spices. The Moors, believing that the citizens still had food reserves left, left the village. The assailants' exclamation "Habent panem paratum!" (They have seasoned bread!) could be the origin of the name.
History
Pamparato has an ancient and fragmented history. There is little information about the Roman settlement in the area, but the first certain mention dates back to 911 when Ludovico III of the Holy Roman Empire donated some land to Pamparato. Subsequently, the town passed under the marquisate of Ceva but was ceded to the city of Asti in 1214. It then returned to the jurisdiction of Ceva and suffered the Astigiana influence throughout the 13th century, also fighting against the Bersani family.
During the 14th century, the Pamparato area was contested by various lords, including the Savoy, the Angevins, the Visconti, and the Marchesato del Monferrato. Despite internal struggles, the town managed to write its first statutes in 1391. In 1418, after the death of the last Acaja, Pamparato passed under the dominion of the Savoy with Amedeo VIII. It is worth noting the presence of a representative of the Cordero family, which would later become the house of the marquises, in the delegation from Mondovì sent to negotiate with the Savoyard duke.
Places of interest
Pamparato is a rural and mountainous town, where nature is the main point of interest. The mountains around the village offer many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. The area is also known for its cuisine, based on local products such as mushrooms, chestnuts, and lamb.
In town, it is worth visiting the parish church of San Giovanni Battista, built in the seventeenth century, and the chapel of San Bernardo, located at the entrance of the village. The chapel houses a statue of the patron saint of the mountain.
Conclusions
Pamparato is a small mountain town where nature is still very present. The history of the town is ancient and interesting, albeit fragmented. Thanks to its location, Pamparato offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, and its cuisine based on local products is delicious. If you are looking for a quiet place to relax and enjoy nature, Pamparato could be the right choice for you.
