Millesimo, the triangular-shaped village of Val Bormida

Millesimo, a village of ancient charm, has uncertain origins: some believe its name derives from the Latin plebs melosina, referring to the sweetness and singing nature of its inhabitants, while others trace it to the dialectal mrésciu, linked to areas subject to flooding by the Bormida River. A legend tells that it was founded by a Roman soldier, weary of marching, who decided to settle here. Documented history begins in 1206, when Marquis Enrico II Del Carretto founded the municipality, granting privileges and immunities. Between the 13th and 14th centuries, Millesimo prospered thanks to livestock farming, viticulture, craftsmanship, and trade. In 1553, the Del Carretto castle was demolished, and in 1713 the village became part of the Kingdom of Savoy.

What to see in the village

The heart of Millesimo is its historic center, with its distinctive triangular shape—its apex at the castle and its base at the Palazzo dei Del Carretto—visible even in old Napoleonic maps. A visit can begin with the village’s symbol, the fortified Ponte della Gaietta, dating back to the 12th century, and the house where Enrico II Del Carretto signed the founding act in 1206. The castle, built in the 13th century to defend the settlement, still preserves its stone tower and keep, and has been restored by the municipality.

At the foot of the castle stands Villa Scarzella, built in 1855 on the ruins of the fortress and today home to the Napoleonic Museum and the Bric Tana visitor center. The Town Hall, adjoining the medieval walls, preserves its stone-arched atrium and historic rooms linked to Pope Pius VII and Napoleon.

The village also preserves the parish church, consecrated in 1467, with Baroque works and the statue of the Madonna del Carmine, as well as the Romanesque pieve of Santa Maria extra muros, dating back to the 12th century and restored in the 1960s. Finally, the Monastery of Santo Stefano, founded in 1216 and transformed over the centuries, still preserves its cloister and 14th-century frescoes, a fine example of Millesimo’s cultural heritage.

Village events

Millesimo offers a rich calendar of events throughout the year. It begins with the New Year’s Concert on January 1. In spring, the National Rally of the Valli del Bormida, a major car race, takes place. From March to May, the castle hosts Donna & …, exhibitions and events dedicated to women. In July, Luglio Millesimese brings entertainment and local cuisine. September features Words and Notes in the Castle and the National Truffle Festival, a highly popular gastronomic event. On November 9, the Anniversary of the Foundation is celebrated with the Enrico II Del Carretto Award, followed by the Thesis Competition.

What to see around Millesimo

The surroundings of Millesimo offer natural landscapes and historic villages worth exploring. Val Bormida features trails through hills, vineyards, and woods, ideal for walks and trekking. Just a few kilometers away are the castles of Cengio, Cosseria, and Roccavignale, medieval landmarks along the ancient route between Piedmont and Liguria. The nearby Valle dei Tre Re offers breathtaking views and hiking itineraries. Also not to be missed are visits to the historic villages of the area, with Romanesque churches and ancient pievi, as well as local wineries where visitors can taste Ligurian and Piedmontese wines and traditional products, immersed in history and nature.

Hurry to discover the ancient village of Millesimo—you won’t regret it!

Cover photo credits: maudanros