Canavese

Canavese is a historical and geographical region in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy. It is situated north of Turin, bordered roughly by the Dora Baltea river to the south, the Po river to the east, the Valle d'Aosta to the north, and the Graian Alps to the west.

Geography and Topography:

Canavese encompasses a diverse landscape, ranging from the fertile plains along the Po and Dora Baltea rivers to the foothills of the Alps and the mountainous regions bordering the Valle d'Aosta. The region is characterized by rolling hills, vineyards, forests, and several morainic lakes, remnants of ancient glaciers. Notable lakes include Lago di Candia, Lago di Viverone, and Lago di Bertignano.

History:

The history of Canavese is rich and complex, dating back to pre-Roman times. The area was inhabited by Celtic tribes before being conquered by the Romans. During the Middle Ages, Canavese was fragmented into numerous feudal domains, often controlled by powerful families such as the Counts of Biandrate and the Valperga. The region's strategic location made it a frequent battleground. Over time, the House of Savoy gradually consolidated its control over Canavese, incorporating it into the Duchy of Savoy, which later became the Kingdom of Sardinia and, eventually, unified Italy.

Economy:

Historically, Canavese relied heavily on agriculture, with viticulture (wine production) being particularly important. The region is known for its Erbaluce di Caluso DOCG white wine. In recent decades, industrialization has also played a significant role in the Canavese economy, with the development of manufacturing and service sectors. Tourism is also growing, driven by the area's natural beauty, historical sites, and proximity to Turin.

Culture:

The culture of Canavese is rooted in its history and traditions. Local festivals, religious celebrations, and culinary specialties are integral to the region's identity. The Canavese dialect, a variant of Piedmontese, is still spoken in some areas.

Municipalities:

Canavese comprises numerous municipalities (comuni), including but not limited to: Ivrea, Cuorgnè, Caluso, Castellamonte, Rivarolo Canavese, San Giorgio Canavese, and Chivasso (although Chivasso is sometimes considered to be on the very edge of the region). Ivrea is often considered the historical and cultural center of Canavese.