Parodi Ligure
Parodi Ligure: A Town on the Hills of the Ligurian Apennines
Parodi Ligure is a small town of 649 inhabitants located in the province of Alessandria, in Piedmont. It is situated on the far-reaching hills of the Ligurian Apennines, between the towns of Gavi and Ovada. Its name in the local dialect is Paódi, while in Piedmontese it is Paròd, and in Ligure it is Parödi.
History of the Town
The town has a long history dating back to at least 973. A document from that time refers to the sale of the territory of Parodi and other territories to the priest Roprando by Lamberto, son of the marquis Ildebrando. Later, the territory passed to the marquises of the Obertenghi lineage, who assigned it in 1033 to the Parmesan monastery of Santa Maria di Castiglione.
The monastery reclaimed the area and built the Monastery of San Remigio, which became very important during the Middle Ages. In the 11th century, a castle was built on the highest rocky spur, where at least five generations of feudal lords succeeded each other. In the 12th century, a city wall was built that enclosed the castle and the whole summit of the hill. This area is still called Reguardia today.
The jurisdiction of the Marquises of Parodi encompassed a vast area that bordered the Republic of Genoa. In 1148, Alberto di Parodi was held prisoner by the lords of Castelletto d'Orba, but was released thanks to the intervention of the Genoese who obtained the sale of the castle in exchange. In 1223, the definitive transfer of all rights took place, and since then Parodi followed the fortunes of the Republic of Genoa.
Unfortunately, almost nothing remains of the castle today and little of the fortification. The hardest blows, which led to the collapse of these buildings, date back to 1625 during the war waged by French and Savoyard forces to conquer Genoa, and to the following century with the repercussions of the War of Austrian Succession.
Until the mid-19th century, Parodi remained administratively linked to Genoa. In 1859, the Province of Novi, of which Parodi was a part, was merged into the Province of Alessandria thanks to Law no. 3702 dated October 23, 1859. A few years later, in 1873, the name of the Municipality was changed from Parodi to Parodi Ligure, in memory of the historical ties with Genoa.
During World War II, Parodi Ligure was the subject of a Nazi-fascist reprisal in March 1945 due to partisan attacks in the area. Numerous houses and the town hall were set on fire. The inhabitants of Parodi, crossing the woods at night, took refuge in the nearby village of San Cristoforo. To this day, a plaque affixed to the entrance of the new town hall recalls the episode and the ancient solidarity that binds the two towns.
The Surrounding Landscape
The surrounding landscape of Parodi Ligure is characterized by the hills of the Ligurian Apennines. The area is very suggestive thanks to the local stone quarries and the vineyards surrounding the town. In particular, Parodi Ligure is home to the Vinchio-Vaglio Serra winery, internationally recognized for the quality of its wines.
The territory is also rich in naturalistic trails, such as the Regional Nature Reserve of the Capanne di Marcarolo, ideal for excursions and trekking. Furthermore, the town is a few kilometers from the Regional Natural Park of Beigua, a very extensive protected area that offers breathtaking landscapes and numerous outdoor activities.
Events and Traditions
Parodi Ligure is a quiet little town, but there is no shortage of events and traditions. The patronal festival of the town is celebrated on October 7 in honor of Santa Maria Maddalena. During the festival, processions in traditional costumes, shows for children, and concerts take place.
In addition, every year in May, an event called "Un Fior di Vino" is organized, during which you can taste the local wine accompanied by typical products of the territory. Finally, in Parodi Ligure, the tradition of "Monteu" is alive, which is a set of ancient habits linked to peasant life that are relived every year.
Conclusions
Parodi Ligure is a small town with a long history and a strong cultural identity. The surrounding area is suggestive and offers many opportunities for nature lovers and outdoor activities. Events and traditions highlight the vitality of a community that wants to preserve its roots. If you are looking for a quiet place to relax and discover the beauties of Piedmont, Parodi Ligure is definitely a great choice.
