Villanova Monferrato

History, art and traditions

Some archaeological finds show the hypothetical existence of a settlement under the dominion of the Roman Empire. In IV century B.C. with evangelisation by the Holy Bishop Eusebio it is considered that the many century dependence under Vercelli began. The construction of the first church commissioned by the nobleman Emiliano II, feudal lord of the site dates back to the VII century. In 1197 it was established as Borgo Franco (Free Commune), with deed drawn up by the Consignori of Vercelli. Here we come across the name (locus Villae Novae), the presence of an important castle, the existence of the Consignori owners of the manor house. In the years to follow it was possessed by several noble families in the region.

What to see

The church we see now was built in the XIX century on pre-existing foundations dating back to former centuries. It has a large sacristy with two small baroque chapels; two large paintings can be seen at the top of the aisles to the right and left of the high altar, work of the Casale painter, Emilio Massazza. They represent King David with lyre and the patriarch Moses. Conserved in the Council chamber of the town hall is a fine painting by the Guala, Madonna with bambino blessing S.Emiliano and S.Bernardino.

What to taste

Villanova is the headquarters of Bistefani, famous sweets manufacturer, one of the most typical in zone being the "krumiri". These characteristic biscuits are made from a mixture of mainly sugar, egg, butter, white flour with no added water. The basso Monferrato zone is also famous for its Rice production. The Monferrato rice mill processes different kinds of rice, including the most traditional Italian ones (Carnaroli, Roma) as well as more exotic varieties (fragrant Thai and Indian Basmati). And we mustn't forget the production of organic rice, coloured rice, quick-cooking rice.