Mystery and Charm in Piedmont: Exploring Valle Cervo’s Hidden Village
One of the most enigmatic and fascinating settlements in the Bel Paese can be found among the breathtaking landscapes of Piedmont’s upper Valle Cervo. We are in the province of Biella, in a region notable for its natural and landscape richness, with lush beech and chestnut woods, stone quarries, and streams such as the Cervo stream, which gives the Valley its name.
A wonderful historic village with ancient traditions
There are various inhabited towns in this mountain area that are unique and delightful to see, but in the higher part of the valley, there is one settlement in particular that arouses interest, charm, and mystery; its name is Rosazza. The town, known for its numerous neo-Gothic style structures, has ancient origins reaching back to pre-Roman times, when it was populated by native populations dedicated to hunting, fishing, and the rather complicated practice of sheep rearing and vegetable cultivation.
Some old historical artifact discoveries, including Roman coins, attest to the presence of Rome’s legions in the area, particularly in the valley’s lower reaches.
The Upper Cervo valley was cited in a significant document by Pope Innocent III in a papal bull dated 2 May 1207. Its fame stems from its association with Federico Rosazza, senator of the Kingdom of Italy, former member of Mazzini’s Young Italy, and, most all, Venerable Grand Master of Biella Freemasonry.
Federico Rosazza himself had several works made for the valley’s population, helping to create the veil of mystery combined with esotericism that now marks the entire town of Rosazza and its most distinctive and identifiable buildings.
What to do and what to see in Rosazza in Piedmont
Rosazza is home to a number of religious and civil landmarks, including the current town hall, which was designed by the influential figure of Giuseppe Maffei, who meticulously oversaw its construction, down to the smallest details, such as the delightful Ghibelline battlements that adorn the high tower and the harmonious staircase made of white marble that leads to its upper floors. A visit to the Church-Temple and the lovely and fascinating Rosazza Castle, with its tower and entry arch to its gardens, are also musts. It was commissioned by the aforementioned Federico Rosazza and began construction in 1883 before being retouched and expanded structurally with successive interventions.
Construction was completed in 1899, the year of the noble Federico’s death, along with Giuseppe Maffei, who was in charge of the structure’s design and construction. It should be noted that the castle’s entrance arch was modeled by that of Volterra, a charming and culturally rich Tuscan city.
How to get to the magnificent village of Rosazza: here are some tips
Starting from the city of Biella, you can get to Rosazza in just over twenty minutes by car, traveling approximately 16 kilometers on the SP100 road heading north. The same road can also be traveled by bus, always starting from Biella.
