Albarola
A Geographical Fraction of Vigolzone
Hello friends, today I want to talk to you about Albarola, a geographical fraction of the Municipality of Vigolzone, located in the province of Piacenza. This small village is located in the lower valley of the Nure river and is situated on the left bank of the Nure, only 5 km away from Ponte dell'Olio.
A Rich History of Events
Originally, this territory was part of a single village with Ponte dell'Olio, called ''Ponte Albarola''. In 418, Albarola became part of the Basilica of Sant'Antonino. Its strategic position controlled the area traversed by the Nure river, which was an important commercial and communication route for Liguria.
In the late Middle Ages, it was the scene of battles between Guelphs and Ghibellines; the area was subject first to the Guelphs and then, after the fall of Alberto Scoto, to Lancillotto Anguissola, in 1324. In 1414, the Anguissola family was invested by Emperor Sigismund with the villa of Albarola.
Places of Interest
One of the main places of interest to visit is the Church of Sant'Antonino, located in the town center, opposite the eighteenth-century ''Palazzo Barattieri''. The church, built between the last years of the 14th century and the early 15th century, is in Romanesque architecture style. The facade, built with rocks from the Nure river, is in neoclassical architecture. Inside, a canvas attributed to the Genovesino and an eighteenth-century chandelier are preserved.
Economy and Tourism
Albarola, with its territory that is part of the Denomination of Controlled Origin of the Piacenza hills, is characterized by the strong presence of vineyards. Two wineries are based in the fraction, respectively in the eighteenth-century ''Palazzo Barattieri'' and at ''Villa Peirano''. Since 1977, there has also been the ''Pro Loco Albarola'', a non-profit association that deals with tourism and the protection of cultural, natural and environmental heritage.
Infrastructure and Transport
Albarola is crossed by the ex-State Road 654 of Val Nure, which after the fraction crosses the Nure river with a bridge to the opposite bank and reaches Ponte dell'Olio. The fraction is also well-connected thanks to its proximity to the A21 highway and Piacenza railway station.
In conclusion, Albarola is a place rich in history and culture that is definitely worth a visit. If you are passionate about food and wine, you cannot miss the tasting of the prestigious wines of the area. And finally, if you love nature, there are many opportunities for excursions in the beautiful countryside of Piacenza.
