Rocca Grimalda
Rocca Grimalda: welcome to a small Piedmontese town
Rocca Grimalda is a picturesque Piedmontese town located in the province of Alessandria, in the upper Monferrato. With only 1,420 inhabitants, it is a quiet place with a familiar atmosphere. The name comes from the family that kept possession of it until the 19th century, the Grimaldi. Let's see some of its history.
History of Rocca Grimalda
Traces of settlements date back to the pre-Roman era, but the remains of a Lombard castle have also been found. Over the centuries, the town has been disputed by various factions, including the Republic of Genoa, the marquises of Monferrato and the Duchy of Milan. In 1355, it was granted to the marquises of Monferrato, later occupied by Filippo Maria Visconti and finally ceded to the Trotti. In the 18th century, the area of Rocca Grimalda was still covered by dense forests where brigandage thrived. The Grimaldi family became the owner and brought the cult of Saint Limbania, as well as the cultivation of the vine that changed the landscape.
Description of Rocca Grimalda
The town stands on a rocky spur to the left of the Orba river, in a historic-cultural area called the Ovadese, named after the city of Ovada. The surrounding hills are covered with vineyards and are the heart of the Casalese Monferrato, where excellent wines are produced. The historical center of Rocca Grimalda is very characteristic, with its stone houses and narrow cobbled streets. There are some interesting churches, including the one dedicated to Saint Limbania, the patron saint of the place, and the sanctuary of "Madonna della Neve", located on a panoramic hill that offers a spectacular view of the Orba valley.
What to do in Rocca Grimalda
If you love nature, Rocca Grimalda is the ideal place for hiking or cycling. There are many paths and scenic routes that cross vineyards, forests and hills. In addition, the town is an ideal starting point to visit other interesting places in the Monferrato, such as Ovada, the Tagliolo castle, the abbey of Santa Maria di Lucedio and many other historic villages.
Gastronomy and wine in Rocca Grimalda
We Italians love good food, and Rocca Grimalda does not disappoint expectations. The area is famous for its wines, in particular the "Barbera del Monferrato", but there are also other culinary specialties such as "bagna cauda", a sauce based on garlic, oil and anchovies, or "risotto al Barbera". In addition, there are many farms and wineries where you can taste local products and buy souvenirs.
Conclusions
In summary, Rocca Grimalda is a hidden gem in the heart of the Monferrato, which deserves a visit if you are traveling in Piedmont. It is an ideal place to relax, enjoy nature and good food, and discover the history and culture of this region rich in treasures. We hope to have piqued your curiosity, and we wish you a good trip!
