Trisobbio is one of the municipalities of the Ovadese area, a historical and cultural region of Lower Piedmont and Monferrato; in this case, Trisobbio is located in Upper Monferrato. The area is known for its Dolcetto d’Ovada vineyards, and its hilltop position offers views of both the Alps and the nearby Ligurian Apennines. The territory also produces Ovada Superiore DOCG and Barbera del Monferrato wines. In the surrounding woods, white truffles can be found, and on the hills, alongside the vineyards, the renowned Tonda Gentile IGP hazelnuts are cultivated.
The area is also well suited for cattle breeding, particularly the Piedmontese Fassona breed.
The first documents attesting to the existence of the medieval village date back to 1040, when it was called Trexoblo. The name underwent various changes in official documents until it settled as Trisobbio by at least 1283. In 2002, an international conference was held in Trisobbio dedicated to rediscovering the village and its historical events; the proceedings were later published.
The quantity of documented events and information is too vast for a brief summary, but a kind of compendium can be consulted on the official municipal website.
In general, however, the main events mirror those that affected the wider Monferrato and Piedmont region. Trisobbio still appears as an ancient medieval village with three concentric rings of houses surrounding the castle, which occupies a dominant position—a rather rare urban structure in Piedmont.
The well-restored palaces, preserved houses, and narrow streets and alleys make it easy to imagine the village as it was centuries ago.
The castle dates back to the 12th century and is currently used as a restaurant and hotel. Restored, it appears largely intact and is surrounded by a park with centuries-old trees. The castle undoubtedly underwent modifications and defensive reinforcements during the time the Malaspina family ruled the fief in the late 15th century, giving it its current appearance. Over time, it gradually fell into decline until the early 1900s. Restoration work began in 1913 under the direction of Marquis Carpente Spinola, returning the castle and its park to their original state. Since 1989, it has been owned by the Municipality and, as mentioned, hosts events and ceremonies as part of the Castelli Aperti (Open Castles) network of Lower Piedmont.
Among the civil buildings of medieval origin, later modified, we can mention Palazzo Rossi Dogliotti, now the town hall. A careful visit to this three-story palace allows appreciation of the original ceilings, beautiful inlaid wooden floors, decorations such as gilded-framed mirrors, splendid walnut doors, and evidence of architectural interventions over the 16th, 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries.
The loggia on the second floor is particularly striking, and the cellars now house an enoteca, featuring an 1840 wine press, an icehouse for food storage, and an infernot.
Among the religious buildings, the parish church of Nostra Signora Assunta stands out. Although apparently built in 1398, it now displays a richly Baroque interior with numerous paintings, sculptures, frescoes, and decorations.
In panoramic locations, the Church of San Rocco and the Church of Villa Botteri are also noteworthy.
Thanks to its originality and the quality of its natural environment, further enhanced by the presence of an ancient walnut tree known as the “Noce di San Giovanni,” Trisobbio has been awarded the Orange Flag by the Touring Club Italiano.
