Ponzano may count only 330 inhabitants, yet this small village—together with nearby Salabue, forming a single municipality—carries with it a wealth of history.
Probably dating back to late Roman times, Pontius was once home to wealthy families and legionaries who, at the end of their long military service, were granted extensive lands in this very area. In 1014, Emperor Henry II ceded it to the Church of Vercelli. Centuries later, it passed to Marquis Guglielmo V of Monferrato, following the same historical course as much of the surrounding territory.
Once again, a castle stands as silent witness to centuries of events. First mentioned in 1014, Ponzano’s castle became the property of the noble De Ponzano family in the 13th century. It boasted a residence, a tower, and a wide moat. Over the centuries, ownership shifted many times until the early 1900s, when it became the home of Marshal Ugo Cavallaro. Today, it remains in the hands of his heirs.
Of particular interest is the castle’s park and garden, with records dating back to 1588. For centuries, it was expanded and carefully maintained, enriched with centuries-old trees, rare species, ornamental plants, and pathways designed for strolling. In 1737, an artichoke garden was added, and the grounds were further enlarged.
Ponzano also hides two more remarkable gardens, dating from the late 18th to the late 19th century. Meticulously designed, they feature a wide variety of plants and species worthy of a botanical garden, with centuries-old trees—some as old as 300 years. These are the gardens of Villa Il Cedro and the Sagittario residence.
In the hamlet of Salabue, alongside its imposing castle, stands the garden of Villa Larbel, created in the late 18th century. Among the religious buildings, the Church of San Giovanni Battista is particularly notable. Located near the castle, it likely dates back to the 14th century but was rebuilt in 1660, enriched with new furnishings in 1746, and restored just sixty years ago. Also noteworthy is the Church of San Sebastiano, built in 1725. Though incorporated into the castle grounds, it still has an entrance from the outside.
