Prali
Discovering Prali: a gem in the Cozie Alps
Prali is a small town located in the high Germanasca valley, in the metropolitan city of Turin. It's a place worth visiting not only for its natural beauty but also for its history and culture. In this article, we will discover together the curiosities of Prali.
Physical Geography
Prali is located in a flat basin surrounded by the green forests of the Cozie Alps, with many small hamlets including Ghigo, Villa, and Malzat. Here, you can admire the unspoiled nature and enjoy spectacular landscapes. Hikers will find many opportunities to explore the surrounding mountains.
History
Prali has a long history, with the first documents dating back to the 11th century. The presence of the Waldensians was significant, with a Synod celebrated in 1533 confirming their adherence to the Protestant Reformation. The Waldensian Temple of Ghigo was built in 1556 and became the place of worship for all Waldensians in the Germanasca valley.
Throughout the centuries, Prali has been affected by wars, plagues, and French and Savoyard occupations. In 1767, Charles Emmanuel III of Savoy had a Catholic church built in the hamlet of Villa.
During the XX Winter Olympic Games in 2006, Prali was chosen as the venue for alpine and cross-country skiing training.
Society
In the last hundred years, Prali's resident population has decreased by 75%. Despite this, the inhabitants of the town are very welcoming and proud of their historical roots.
Art and Culture
Prali is rich in art and culture, with two important churches: the Parish Church of San Giovanni Battista in Villa, built in 1462, and the Waldensian Temple of Ghigo, erected in 1556 and rebuilt in 1962. Both churches testify to the presence of the Waldensians in the Germanasca valley.
The Waldensian Temple of Ghigo houses a historical museum that documents the valley's events from prehistory to the present day, with a particular focus on religious aspects.
Sports facilities, including bocce courts and a football pitch, are located along the Germanasca stream. In winter, the bocce courts transform into an ice skating rink.
Conclusion
Prali is a small gem in the Cozie Alps, rich in history and culture. The Germanasca valley offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its natural beauty and trekking routes in the surrounding mountains. The religious monuments and historical museum represent a unique cultural heritage worth visiting. It's a perfect destination for a day trip away from the chaos of the city.
