The Distant Origins
The story of Masserano begins a very long time ago. Archaeological findings, such as ancient scrapers, show that Neanderthals were passing through the area as far back as 50,000 to 80,000 years ago. During the Roman era, the area was an important crossroads, and various finds (coins, vases, tombs) point to a flourishing village called Muro. When the barbaric invasions began, the inhabitants of Muro took refuge on the hills, founding the Borgo Inferiore, the first core of Masserano.
One Village, Two Powers
In the Middle Ages, the town was divided between two powers: the Free Commune of Vercelli and the Bishop-Count. This dualism created tensions, but eventually, Masserano fell completely under the control of the Commune of Vercelli. This was a period of growth: in 1340, the town was granted permission to hold a weekly market, which transformed it into a crucial trading hub for the entire region.
The Era of the Princes
The real turning point came with the Genoese family of the Fieschi, who gained control of Masserano in 1394. From that point on, the fief became a principality, and for over two centuries, Masserano was the capital of a small, independent state with its own mint for coining money. Despite some conflicts with the princes (who were accused of raising taxes and even coining counterfeit money!), their era also saw important developments, such as the construction of the majestic Palazzo dei Principi.
From Monarchy to Change
In 1767, the principality was sold to the House of Savoy, ending its independence. Masserano then came under French rule for a brief period, but with the return of the Savoy, it became a quiet agricultural center once more. However, prominent figures emerged, such as the jurist Giovanni Battista Cassinis, who became a minister and senator of the Kingdom of Italy. Between the late 1800s and early 1900s, the population grew significantly, triggering a wave of emigration that led many inhabitants to seek their fortune, first in Italy and Europe, then in America and Africa.
Masserano Today
The migratory waves continued until after World War II before slowing down. Today, the town's economy is based on local factory work and commerce, particularly in the hamlet of San Giacomo, which has become an important commercial center since the 1970s. Masserano thus maintains its connection between a rich, ancient history and a present projected toward the future.
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Via Roma 137, Masserano (BI)
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