Have you ever wondered about the origins of Orbassano? Orbassano is a charming town located just southwest of Turin, Italy. It’s a place steeped in history, with roots stretching back to the Roman Empire. The name Orbassano, possibly derived from “Urbis Sanus” meaning “healthy city,” hints at its strategic location and the abundance of life that thrived here.
Today, we stand where, in the late 19th century, two Imperial era tombstones were unearthed. These remnants offer a tangible link to the Roman conquest of Cisalpine Gaul. It’s quite interesting to contemplate the lives that unfolded on this very ground centuries ago.
Imagine, as you stand amidst the bustling streets of Orbassano, that you’re transported back in time. Imagine a Roman legionary, perhaps named Urbicius, making a home here after a long military career, his centurions of land a testament to his service. The quiet hum of the town today holds echoes of his footsteps.
Orbassano was claimed by different rulers over centuries. The Margraves of Susa held sway in the 11th century, until the powerful Abbey of San Giusto in Susa acquired it in 1029. Orbassano later came under the influence of the Orsini family, Lords of Rivalta, who controlled the town for over a century.
The Orsini family, rivals to the Bishops of Turin, engaged in ongoing disputes for control of the territory. It wasn’t until 1253 that an agreement was reached. Then came the House of Savoy, who eventually secured Orbassano in 1327.
Today, Orbassano retains its charm and history. While the land is no longer a battleground of empires, it’s still a thriving community. It may not be a well-known destination but it definitely holds a fascinating history and a unique place in the story of Italy.