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SAN MARZANO
OLIVETO |
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Comune
di San Marzano Oliveto
Via Umberto I, 2
Tel: 0141/856121
E-mail: smoliveto@inwind.it
Mayor: Gianni Scagliola
Population: 1010
Altitude: 301 a.s.l.
Carabinieri: Canelli
Tel: 0141/823384 |
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The
name S. Marzano was imposed out of deference
to S. Marziano, possibly the first bishop
of Tortona (5th century?) or the bishop
of Ravenna who was martyrized in Tortona.
In 1862 the name “Oliveto”
was added, which some ascribe to the presence
of olive trees in the area in ancient
times. However others cast doubt over
the cultivation of olives here in the
Middle Ages, and put forward the theory
that “Oliveto” derives from
the dialect “ò rivè”,
meaning slope, and the village does indeed
lie on a rather steep hill.
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| LOCAL
AREA - ECONOMY |
| Farming
is the main traditional activity in S. Marzano.
The mild climate and the lie of the land are
particularly favourable for fruit crops, apples
in particular. A group of local growers has
recently set up a consortium for the promotion
of their apples, using the brand name “Divina”.
Conditions are also ideal for viticulture,
with a good production of wine (especially
Barbera). |
| ART
AND ARCHITECTURE |
| The
castle is an imposing, atmospheric building,
now used for conferences, events and auctions.
Its ancient cellars, with archways and vaulted
ceilings, recall a Gothic cathedral and its
splendid terrace/garden affords beautiful
views of the surrounding area. The parish
church of San Marziano, which lies on the
piazza in front of the castle, is in classic
Renaissance style, with a single nave and
a Neoclassical presbytery and choir. |
| KEY
FIGURES |
Until
a few years ago, Turin-born Giovanni Gavarotti
had a high precision workshop here in valle
Asinari, where he created bows for violins,
violas and double basses, using particular
types of wood such as ebony and brazilwood.
The climatic conditions were particularly
favourable for seasoning these delicate instruments.
In the 1980’s the German painter Viktor
Mòllerstaedt, whose works are inspired
by fifteenth century Italian art, took up
residence here. |
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