Saluzzo

Access

In terms of accessibility, Saluzzo is served by the Savigliano-Saluzzo-Cuneo railway line, in operation since the 19th century. The city is connected to the motorway network via the provincial road to the plain, and is served by regional buses that allow access to the surrounding valleys and the main areas of the province. The area is easily accessible for visitors from Turin and Cuneo as well as the rest of Piedmont.

Introduction

Saluzzo is a Piedmontese municipality located in the province of Cuneo, at the foot of the Cottian Alps and the Monviso mountain range. It has about 17,600 inhabitants and covers an area of about 75.8 km², with an average altitude of 340 metres above sea level. The historic core, of medieval origin, lies on the hill at the eastern end of Monviso, between the plains of the Varaita stream and the first flat stretch of the Po.

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Description

Historically, Saluzzo was the capital of the marquisate of the same name from 1142 to 1548, a role that profoundly influenced the city's urban layout and identity. It developed from the 13th century with the formation of the upper town and the construction of the castle, now known as 'Castiglia', originally a stronghold of the Marquis and later enlarged with towers and bastions. During the 15th century, the city experienced its greatest splendour under the governments of Ludovico I and Ludovico II, followed by a period of decline and annexation to the Savoy Duchy in the 16th century.
The historic centre retains its 15th-century urban characteristics almost intact, with narrow streets, flights of steps, churches and noble palaces articulated around the three main areas: borgo Valoria, borgo di Mezzo and borgo San Martino. Among the most notable architectures are the Castiglia, the Cathedral of Saluzzo - an example of Piedmontese Gothic architecture - and numerous historical palaces and churches. The city is also an episcopal seat and preserves a rich artistic and religious heritage.
Saluzzo's location offers an important crossroads between the Cuneo plain and the Alpine valleys, particularly the Po and Varaita Valleys. The surrounding environment is characterised by panoramas ranging from the first Alpine foothills, the agricultural landscapes of the plain, to the wilder areas on the edge of Monviso. Saluzzo is a privileged starting point for hikes and nature itineraries that lead to the Alpine valleys or allow you to explore the surroundings along scenic trails and cycle paths. The territory is included in the Monviso Park, preserving ecosystems typical of the Cottian Alps.
In economic and productive terms, Saluzzo has consolidated traditions in agriculture and handicrafts, but also has industrial sectors and a growing vocation for tourism. The fruit and vegetable markets, the local cultivation chain (such as the fruit sector) and the historical presence of artisan manufactures are distinctive features of the local productive identity. Traditional dishes include a herb soup typical of the area, which testifies to the variety of wild plants available in the area.
Saluzzo's culture and traditions are lively: there are numerous religious festivals, fairs, moments of popular folklore and events that punctuate city life. Celebrations linked to the patron saint San Chiaffredo and neighbourhood festivals keep the link with local history alive. Artistic and musical activities are also worthy of note, thanks to cultural institutions and associations that are active in promoting Saluzzo's heritage.

Information

Area: 76.59sq km
Altitude: 395m
Maximum elevation:
Number of inhabitants: 17.600 inhabitants (2023)
Name in dialect: Salusse
Inhabitants name:Saluzzesi
Patron Saint: Saint Chiaffredo (first Sunday in September)
Bordering municipalities: Cardè, Castellar, Lagnasco, Manta, Moretta, Pagno, Revello, Savigliano, Scarnafigi, Torre San Giorgio
Website: www.comune.saluzzo.cn.it