This was originally one of the many ‘courts’ founded in the Asti area in the high Medieval period. The Medieval name of the village was “Curtis anseris”, revealing its identity as an estate, as “curtis” was the word used to denote both the land belonging to a lord and the village and the yard where the harvest from the estate was gathered. Cortanze was also of strategic military importance. It was the subject of complex and intricate feudal questions which saw it changing hands many times. In 1622 the Roero family gained exclusive ownership.

The economy of Cortanze is mainly based on farming, which has lately been oriented towards free range livestock farms, as well as vineyards and extensive hazelnut cultivation. The Castle of the Roero Marquisate has been completely restored and Cortanze is also attempting to promote tourism, offering high quality restaurants where visitors can sample the delicious local specialities.

ART AND ARCHITECTURE

The completely restored castle is one of the best preserved examples of Medieval military architecture in the Asti Province. The great hall features a splendid cross vault ceiling with elegant sandstone keystones decorated with symbolic figures. Originally with two towers, now only the southern tower remains. This is 22 metres high and comprises three rooms on three storeys, the first of which was converted relatively recently into a private chapel.