Oia
Oia, the fraction of Racconigi with a mysterious past
Oia, also known as Nova in the Piedmontese language, is a fraction of the municipality of Racconigi in the province of Cuneo. Its origin is shrouded in mystery, but it is presumed to have been part of the fiefdom of the nearby Migliabruna.
Over time, the fraction has grown and had an important role as a center of social life, thanks to the presence of a school, three taverns and a nursery school affiliated with the church of San Matteo. Over the years, Oia has seen an increase in population thanks to the construction of new homes by some local families.
The urban layout of the fraction
Oia is the only fraction of Racconigi with a true urban layout similar to that of a neighborhood. The main street runs through the fraction, from which smaller streets branch off, some of which are not paved. The church of San Matteo is located on the eastern edge of Oia and next to it is the former rectory. Beyond the railway line lies the forest of Merlino, once very large and now downsized.
The church of San Matteo
The main point of interest in Oia is the church of San Matteo, which dates back to 1750. The church has a facade divided into two orders: the lower level has two stained glass windows and above the entrance door there is a fresco depicting San Matteo. The second level of the facade has a tiny central rose window and ends with a linear pediment. The interior of the church is sober and contains some altarpieces of the Piedmontese school. The church of San Matteo is still in use.
The economy of Oia
In Oia, agriculture is predominant with intensive cultivation of corn, medicinal herbs, soy and wheat, while animal husbandry is concentrated in the swine and bovine sectors. There are also small family-run mechanical workshops.
The curious origin of the name of the Gianduja mask
According to local tradition, Oia can boast of having given the name to the famous Piedmontese mask of Gianduja, usually associated with the city of Turin. In the local spelling, the mask is called "Giandoja", or "Giovanni d'Oia", in honor of the presumed origin of its creator, Giovanni Bessone, who is said to be from the fraction.
Photo gallery
A photo gallery allows you to discover some of the most interesting aspects of Oia. Among the most remarkable shots are the church of San Matteo with its exposed brick facade, some views of the fraction and the bell tower of the same religious building.
In summary, Oia is a particularly interesting fraction to visit for those who want to discover the beauty and curiosities of the Racconigi territory. With its church of San Matteo, agricultural activities and local traditions like the name of the Gianduja/Giandoja mask, Oia offers a suggestive glimpse into the life of Piedmontese fractions.
