The name, according to popular tradition, derives from the name of a goat. Small town in the province of Cuneo, situated on a hill between the valleys of Belbo and Bormida, the town is concentrated around the castle, which dominates the surrounding landscape. Cravanzana has a primarily agricultural vocation: it is devoted to fruit cultivation and production of nuts, livestock, particularly sheep, a special milk from which a famous "robiola" cheese is obtained. Departure point for several trekking and biking paths in direct contact with the surrounding environment, among meadows and hazelnut woods of the Alta Langa, where it is possible to enjoy spectacular views and picturesque corners. Numerous are the fine gastronomy and selected wine produced locally.
The origins of the first settlements are very old and date back to the II century B.C., traces attest that the territory of Alta Langa was involved in the most significant historical events of Piemonte, from the times of the Roman rule to those of the Barbarians. It seems that the center, in the XII century, belonged to the Marquis of Cortemilia; in the XVII century, the Savoy ceded Cravanzana in fief to the Marquis Fontana, which is responsible for the rebuilding of the castle. During the following centuries the town shared the same fate and history of the other municipalities of Piedmont with the invasion of Napoleon, the inclusion into the Kingdom of Savoy and later into the Kingdom of Italy.
Attractions:
- the XIII century Collegiate Church of St Mary, which features a beautiful arched portal, an octagonal apse, decorated arches with window openings. The massive church Bell Tower features a square base and is decorated with a series of small arches and mullioned windows, topped by a spire;
- the Parish Church of Saints Peter and Vitale;
- the Castle of the Marquis Fontana, an impressive medieval building that gathers the town around itself and from where, thanks to the particular dominant location, it is possible to enjoy an incomparable view over the surrounding countryside. It was rebuilt in the XVII century by the Marquis Fontana.