Sandigliano
Discover Sandigliano, a Piedmontese town rich in history and culture
If you enjoy traveling to discover small villages and historic towns, you can't miss Sandigliano, a town in the province of Biella in Piedmont. Here is a story about the history of this place and its monuments and places of interest.
History
The name Sandigliano dates back to 999 when it was called "Santilianus". This name may derive from the Roman gentilis "gentilius". In the medieval era, it was included among the fiefs of the Vercelli county and belonged to several local lords. In 999, it was given to the Vercelli bishopric and subsequently divided between the lords of Sandigliano and the Vialardi. In 1353, it was invaded by the Visconti troops and later sacked by Facino Cane's army during the wars between Visconti and Savoy for the possession of Biella.
Given to families such as the Vialardi and Avogadro, it was enfeoffed to Sebastiano Ferrero in 1493 and repeatedly sacked in the 17th century during the wars between French and Spanish for the possession of Northern Italy. In the 19th century, it became part of the possessions of General Bernardino Morra, Count of Lavriano. Today, the medieval castle built in the 15th century is still in perfect condition and houses the outer walls and the tower. The area in front of the castle, known as the Ricetto, was a safe place for the inhabitants of the town in case of war and attacks.
Monuments and places of interest
Among the places of interest that you can't miss is also the Vialardi or Torrione castle, another castle located in the Villa locality. It dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries and is divided into two distinct nuclei. It preserves the imposing original tower and a 13th-century portal. The inner courtyard is decorated with fine wall paintings representing the Holy Shroud.
Finally, in the village area, you can visit the parish church of Santa Maria Assunta. Built in a neo-Gothic style, this church was built in 1878 on a pre-existing 15th-century church that had collapsed. The church is embellished with magnificent stained glass windows, the Assumption attributed to Gamba, and a Via Crucis by Guglielmo Ciardi.
Economy
Sandigliano's economy is based on the textile, mechanical, chemical, and plastics industries. It mainly deals with the processing of natural fibers such as wool and synthetic fibers. Agriculture is another important activity in the town, with the cultivation of cereals, forage, and wine grapes. Livestock farming of cattle, sheep, and goats completes the economic picture of the town.
Symbols
Like all Italian towns, Sandigliano has its symbols. The flag of Sandigliano consists of a blue drapery with the golden civic heraldry. The heraldry is oval divided into two parts: the first with a white background and a black tower with three window openings; the second with a red background and a silver wavy bar with three crosses of the same color.
Conclusion
Sandigliano is a surprising small town that won't fail to enchant you during your visit. If you're looking for a place to relax and discover the wonders of the past, don't miss this little gem of Piedmont.
