Trisobbio
Discovering Trisobbio: a journey through history and legends
Trisobbio is a small town in the province of Alessandria, located in the Piedmont region, part of the historical and cultural area of the Lower Piedmont and Monferrato. The territory of Trisobbio extends between the Orba River and the Bormida Valley, where the properties of the Malaspina and Boccaccio families are located. Let's explore together the history and legends that have made this town so special.
Origins of the name
There is an interesting legend about the toponym of Trisobbio. It is said that the town was founded by three families of sober men, brothers of seven drunken men who founded Strevi, hence the name ''Tres sobri'' ("Three sober"). However, the documented attestation of the name dates back to 1040-1041, and since then the name has been changed on several occasions, such as ''Trexoblo'', ''Trixoblo'' and finally ''Trisobio''.
History
Trisobbio played an important role in the relationship between the Orba River and the Bormida Valley. In 1531, after the marriage of Violante Malaspina to Count Giovanni Battista Lodrone, the territory passed to the Lodrone family. After the Monferrato region was taken over by the Gonzaga family of Mantua, in 1536 the territory was divided into new and old fiefs, which the Gonzaga family put up for sale between the 1500s and 1600s, granting nobility titles to rich Mantuan or Genoese lords. Thus, Giambattista Spinola became Trisobbio's lord. In 1708, the Monferrato region was assigned to Victor Amadeus II of Savoy.
During the War of the Austrian Succession, Trisobbio was occupied by the French troops of Marshal Maillebois. After the war, the town was restored and rebuilt, and today it is a beautiful example of historical architecture, where visitors can discover the beauty of Piedmontese tradition and culture.
Symbols
Trisobbio's coat of arms was approved by the municipal administration in 1973 and granted with the decree of the President of the Republic no. 1296 of 1982. The coat of arms reproduces the arms of the Republic of Genoa, the Aleramici and the Spinola. Moreover, to remember the legend of the three families of sober men who founded the town, the coat of arms features the allegory of three silver tickets on a blue background.
Legends and traditions
Trisobbio is a town rich in legends and traditions that have remained intact over time thanks to the collective memory of its inhabitants. One of the most fascinating legends is that of the ghost of Marianna. It is said that in the 18th century, Marianna, a beautiful and wealthy lady, fell in love with a poor man and lived in poverty to stay close to him. Marianna's parents, determined to prevent their love, locked her in a tower, where she died after months of imprisonment. Since then, it is said that her ghost still roams the walls of the tower.
Another tradition that deserves to be discovered is the feast of Saint John the Baptist, celebrated every year in June with a large bonfire in the town center. This festival dates back to ancient times and represented the beginning of summer and the rebirth of nature.
Artistic heritage
Trisobbio boasts a very interesting artistic heritage, including the Tower of the Spinola family, the Malaspina Castle, the Church of Saint John the Baptist and the Chapel of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. The Tower of the Spinola family, built in the 14th century, is an architectural work of great refinement and beauty, which offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills. The Malaspina Castle, located in the heart of the town, is an imposing building where you can still admire the ancient walls and numerous towers.
What to see and do
Trisobbio is the ideal place for those who love nature, history and culture. In the town there are many activities to do, such as hiking or cycling, guided tours of museums, wine and local food tastings, and much more. Moreover, the town is close to other cities of art such as Alessandria, Asti and Genoa, which are worth visiting.
In conclusion, Trisobbio is a small town that contains a great beauty and a thousand-year-old history. Discovering this town means immersing oneself in a unique and invaluable culture where legends, traditions and art come together to create an unforgettable experience.
