Selve Marcone
Selve Marcone: A Beautiful Community in the Heart of Piedmont
Selve Marcone, also known as Selve, is a geographic hamlet located in the municipality of Pettinengo, in the province of Biella, Piedmont. Until December 31st, 2016, this territory was an autonomous municipality and bordered the municipalities of Andorno Micca, Callabiana, Pettinengo, Piedicavallo, Rassa (VC), and Tavigliano. Today, although part of the municipality of Pettinengo, Selve Marcone continues to preserve its identity and traditions.
Physical Geography
Selve Marcone is located in the wooded area of the ridge that separates the Cervo Valley from the Strona di Mosso Valley. The highest point of the hamlet is Monte Turlo (835 m) and the main watercourse is the Rio Tamarone, which marks the border with Pettinengo for several kilometers. Near the locality of Quadretto is the "Le Ginestre" lake, a small artificial water area ideal for sport fishing. The hamlet's localities are all a short distance from the former municipal capital, Tappi.
Name Origins
The name of Selve Marcone derives from the numerous woods that once covered the surrounding hills. Today, many of these forests have been preserved and represent a unique natural attraction of the area.
History
Selve Marcone was part of the fiefdom of Andorno Micca and remained in this mandate until 1694, when it became an autonomous municipality. In 1721, it was enfeoffed to Bernardino Baudi, already the count of Vigone. In 1944, in the area now known as "Quadretto," the so-called "Mountain Contract" was signed: an agreement between Biella's industrialists and the labor movement that reduced wage disparities between textile industry workers and employees and regulated the work relationship between men and women in an almost equal manner. This contract was a model for subsequent negotiations, and in 1974, it was commemorated with a mural plaque on the trattoria run by Clemente Stellio.
In 2017, Selve Marcone was incorporated into the municipality of Pettinengo but has maintained its identity as a community and preserved its traditions.
Symbols
The coat of arms of Selve Marcone was granted by the President of the Republic's decree of March 19th, 2003. The banner was a yellow cloth with a green border.
Monuments and Places of Interest
Selve Marcone boasts some monuments of great historical and cultural interest. The parish church dedicated to Gratus of Aosta was built in the eighteenth century and represents an example of Baroque religious architecture. Another notable place is the chapel of Saint Anthony of Marcone, located near the "crossroad," the place from which the roads to Ribatto, Callabiana, and Andorno Micca depart.
In conclusion, Selve Marcone is a magical place that represents the heart of Piedmont. Here, you can immerse yourself in unspoiled nature, discover the history of the area and its traditions, and taste the authentic flavors of local cuisine.
