Santhià, Italian comune
Santhià is a small town in the Province of Vercelli located where hills meet flat land, surrounded by farmland and rice fields. It preserves a medieval layout centered on a main street that once ran along an important Roman road, with sections of old walls and a moat still visible underground.
The town began as a Roman settlement on a major road and was renamed by the Lombards in honor of Saint Agatha, eventually becoming Santhià. From the 10th century, bishops of Vercelli controlled the land until 1243 when it came under Vercelli's rule, followed by the House of Savoy in 1377.
The town takes its name from Saint Agatha, reflecting its deep religious roots from past centuries. Walking through the streets, visitors notice how this heritage shapes the local identity, particularly in the churches and older quarters where traditions remain visible in daily life.
The town is easily reached by train via a 19th-century railway connecting Turin to Novara, with regular service. The town center is compact and walkable, with most historic buildings and churches clustered near the main street.
The region's oldest carnival dates back to the late 11th century and is still celebrated yearly with large paper-mache floats and traditional costumes. This celebration blends historical customs with modern festivity, bringing the community together in a way few other events do.
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