Cervarolo
Cervarolo: a historic municipality in Valsesia
Cervarolo was a historic municipality in Valsesia that now belongs to the municipality of Varallo. The territory of Cervarolo includes several inhabited centers such as Villa Inferiore and Superiore, Molino, Prati, Sassello, Solivo and Volta. The landscape of the area is characterized by the presence of forests that make it suitable for outdoor activities such as excursions and summer stays.
Geographic Features
The parish church of Cervarolo is dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel and was expanded and renovated in the Baroque era. It is located on a plateau in Villa Inferiore. The territory of Cervarolo also includes the Piane di Cervarolo, one of the most beautiful alpine pastures in Valsesia, reachable through a path in the woods. There are two refuges here, Gaudenzio Cerini and that of the Gruppo Camosci, managed respectively by private individuals and the Italian Alpine Club of Varallo Sesia. These refuges are useful as a support point for climbing the Massa del Turlo and for various other excursions.
History of Cervarolo
In the last century, the population of Cervarolo exceeded 1200 inhabitants. The economy of the municipality was mixed and the inhabitants were engaged in activities such as seasonal male emigration to France and Switzerland as plasterers and masons, while women emigrated to Lomellina to work with hemp. Currently, the population of Cervarolo is around one hundred. An ancient legend that still circulates around the village concerns the witch Stria Gatina, who presumably lived around 1800.
Events in Cervarolo
Every summer, Cervarolo hosts the Festestate, an event that includes shows, cultural evenings, and gastronomy. In addition, at the beginning of September, the Festa del fungo is organized, a competition among mushroom seekers that ends with a great lunch under a tent, a typical outdoor refuge that is built every summer to accommodate up to 200 people. Starting in 2015, the New Year's dinner has been organized in the Sassello locality, a tradition that is becoming increasingly popular.
In conclusion, Cervarolo is a small municipality in Valsesia, with ancient charm and natural beauty, which offers several outdoor activities and a series of events during the year.
