Col San Giovanni
Col San Giovanni: a picturesque hamlet in the Piedmontese mountains
Col San Giovanni is a quaint hamlet located in the municipality of Viù, at an altitude of 1118 metres above sea level. This picturesque village, also known as "Còl San Gioann" in Piedmontese, was once an independent municipality and the capital of its territory, before being merged with Viù. Today, Col San Giovanni is a favourite tourist destination for those seeking breathtaking views of the mountains, a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life and a holiday in nature.
The toponym of the municipality
The name of the municipality was "Collis ad Sancti Joannis" or "Collo di San Giovanni" in Italian, as the town takes its name from the parish church present in the capital.
The physical geography of Col San Giovanni
Located in the Lanzo Valleys, Col San Giovanni is situated on the northeastern slopes of Mount Civrari and is connected to Viù and Rubiana through the Provincial roads of the province of Turin "del Colle del Lis". Being located in the mountains, the climate of the hamlet is cool and chilly during winter but pleasant and fresh during summer.
The history of Col San Giovanni
The history of the municipality dates back to over a thousand years ago when the Bishop of Turin, Landolfo, first mentioned Col San Giovanni in a document drafted in 1011. Over the centuries, the town was part of the possessions of the Abbey of Sangano and then came under the jurisdiction of the Visconti di Baratonia. In 1614, the parish church of San Giovanni Battista was built, which remains one of the most important historical buildings in the hamlet.
In the 19th century, the municipality of Col San Giovanni had over 1400 inhabitants and comprised numerous hamlets, including Bertesseno, Niquidetto, Colletto and Richiaglio. Its inhabitants were mainly farmers and breeders, but during winter, many of them migrated to Turin to work as servants in wealthy families.
During World War II, the territory around Col San Giovanni was the scene of clashes between partisans and Nazi-Fascist forces, which caused numerous casualties.
Notable buildings in Col San Giovanni
One of the most precious treasures of Col San Giovanni is the parish church of San Giovanni Battista, built in 1614 and renovated in 1922 to allow for the new road to pass. The church bell tower, dating back to 1100, is the oldest among all the Lanzo Valleys.
Conclusion
Col San Giovanni is a historic and picturesque hamlet that captivates visitors with its natural and architectural beauty. Its millennia-long history, mountain landscapes and welcoming people make this destination an essential stop for those visiting the Lanzo Valleys and the Piedmont region.
