Villata
Villata, an agricultural municipality in the plain of Vercelli
Villata is a municipality located in the province of Vercelli in Piedmont, northern Italy. The center is known as an important agricultural center in the plain of Vercelli. It is located near the left bank of the Sesia river and its municipal area covers 14.37 km². Villata has about 1537 inhabitants and is divided into several hamlets, including Motta S.Morengo, Cimitero, Villa del Bosco.
The history of Villata
The origins of Villata date back to the 13th century when some inhabitants, belonging to the village of "Casalgualone", decided to move to a quieter location due to the continuous raids they were subjected to because of the dispute over that territory between Vercelli and Novara. The new village was named Villata de Casalgualono (1315) and only later became Villata. In the second half of the 13th century, due to the progressive increase in population, the parish of San Barnaba was established. In the 15th century, the castle was built, which is mentioned in a document from 1404. Villata was recognized as one of the localities in the Vercelli area belonging to the Visconti, although politically the lordship remained with the Avogadro family. In 1427, when Vercelli, with its territory and castles, was ceded to Amedeo VIII of Savoy, Villata was excluded from the transfer and continued to belong to the Duchy of Milan and was formally recognized as an autonomous municipality. In the 16th century, the lordship of Villata passed into the hands of the Ferrero Fieschi, princes of Masserano, and they held it until July 1694 when the fief of Villata was sold to the lawyer Giovanni Battista Gibellini of Novara who maintained the rights until the abolition of feudal privileges. Under French rule, Villata lost its autonomy and, for a few years, was again aggregated to the municipality of Casalvolone. With the restoration of 1814, it finally returned as an autonomous municipality of the jurisdiction of Borgo Vercelli.
Symbols of Villata
The symbol of Villata is the Apostle Saint Barnabas, the patron saint of the village.
Monuments and places of interest
The castle of Villata is one of the most important monuments in the center. The castle layout is quadrilateral with an entrance protected by a tower, which was equipped with a drawbridge, to cross a moat, now completely disappeared. The whole building is still in good condition and is open to the public.
Conclusions
Villata is a municipality rich in history and tradition, surrounded by the splendid setting of the plain of Vercelli. Its castle represents an important historical testimony and the village is proud to celebrate its patron saint, Saint Barnabas. Villata is a perfect place for those who want to get to know Italy in its most authentic and charming aspect.
