Villafranca Piemonte
Welcome to Villafranca Piemonte!
Hello everyone! Today I will talk to you about Villafranca Piemonte, a municipality located in the metropolitan city of Turin, in Piedmont. The town has 4,617 inhabitants and is also known as ''Vilafranca'' or ''La Vila'' in Piedmontese language.
Where is Villafranca Piemonte located?
Villafranca is located southwest of Turin and extends along the axis that leads from Pinerolo to Racconigi, about 50 kilometers from the city of Turin and 20 from Pinerolo and the same distance from Saluzzo. It is located in an alluvial plain and its lands are bathed by the streams Pellice and Chisone and the Po river, which makes the territory particularly favorable to agriculture.
The history of Villafranca Piemonte
The town has a very rich history. In 1336 a fire destroyed much of the village, including numerous mills. Later, at the end of the 14th century, the church of Santo Stefano, severely damaged by the fire, was rebuilt thanks to the interest of Aimone of Savoy. In 1515 the French led by Jacques de La Palice defeated the pontifical troops in Villafranca Piemonte and captured their leader, Prospero Colonna.
What to see in Villafranca Piemonte?
Villafranca Piemonte boasts an artistic and cultural heritage of 800 years that includes numerous chapels and churches. The main ones are the Mission Chapel, the Casaforte di Marchierù (Castle of Marchierù), the Church of the Blessed Virgin of Grace called ''"del Monastero"'', the Church of the Annunciation, the Church of San Bernardino, the Church of San Giovanni Battista, the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, the Church of Sant'Antonio, the Church of Saints Maria Maddalena and Stefano and the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Buon Rimedio, in the hamlet of Cantogno. In addition, there is the art gallery museum ''"MARGHERITA"'' of the painter Mattia Fassi, the Municipal Palace and Wing, the Rebuffo di San Michele Palace, the Pignatelli Farmhouse, and the Castle Tower.
Society in Villafranca Piemonte
The demographic evolution in Villafranca Piemonte is remarkable, and the municipality has numerous community groups. Among these, the Santa Cecilia Autonomous Music Band with majorettes.
Economy of Villafranca Piemonte
Villafranca Piemonte is originally a village linked to fishing, although today the river area is home to a rich fish fauna. Agriculture is an important sector in the village's economy, thanks to the fertility of the surrounding countryside. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in cattle farming, while there are also craft businesses ranging from food processing to wood and iron work. The production of panettone, cheeses, and cured meats is particularly developed in the artisanal scenario of Villafranca Piemonte. We also find a bus company and other companies specialized in pig breeding and cereal crops, especially corn. In short, Villafranca Piemonte is a very interesting village from a cultural and landscape point of view, with a long history to be proud of. Its rich economy and the presence of numerous associations make it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to spend an unforgettable patronal feast. I hope I have made you discover this beautiful village and have encouraged you to take a tour!
