Denice is a tiny village tucked away in the gentle hills of southern Piedmont, in the province of Alessandria. With just around 175 residents, it's the kind of place where everyone knows everyone—and where the past is always within reach.

What makes Denice special?

  • Historic Heart: Denice traces its origins back to Roman times and even earlier, with ties to ancient Ligurian tribes.

  • Medieval Charm: Its narrow stone streets and rustic houses hint at centuries of feudal and monastic influence, having once belonged to noble families like the Del Carretto and Scarampi.

  • Quiet Countryside: Surrounded by vineyards and forests, Denice is a peaceful haven—ideal for nature walks, truffle hunting, and panoramic views.

  • Cultural Curiosities: Despite its size, it boasts a rich coat of arms and a deep-rooted local identity, with traditions passed down through generations.

It’s a little-known corner of Italy that feels like stepping into a living postcard.

Ancient Roots

  • Pre-Roman Era: Originally inhabited by the Ligurian tribe known as the Stazielli, whose capital was Caristo (modern-day Acqui Terme).

  • Roman Period: Incorporated into the Roman municipality of Aquae Statiellae, Denice became part of a broader Roman administrative and religious structure.

Medieval Upheaval

  • 9th–10th Century: The region suffered from Saracen raids, particularly devastating in 905. However, in 936, the invaders were repelled by local forces led by Aleramo, a nobleman who would later be rewarded by Emperor Otto I.

  • 967: Otto I granted Aleramo a vast territory—Marca Aleramica—which included Denice.

Feudal Shifts

  • 11th–13th Century: Denice passed through the hands of several noble families:

    • Donated to the Abbey of San Quintino in 991.

    • Controlled by the Del Carretto family, then by the Scarampi family.

    • The tower dates back to the 11th or 12th century, during a time when fortified structures were essential for defense and territorial control. It was likely part of a larger castle complex that served as a strategic lookout and refuge. Denice was under the influence of various noble families, including the Marquises of Monferrato, a powerful dynasty in the region. The tower would have been a symbol of feudal authority and a key point in local governance.

    • Eventually came under the influence of the powerful House of Savoy in 1527.

Noble Legacy

  • The village’s coat of arms reflects its noble past, featuring symbols from families like:

Modern Era

  • 20th Century: Denice was briefly merged with Montechiaro d’Acqui (1929–1946) before regaining its autonomy.

  • Today: With a population of around 175, Denice remains a quiet, close-knit community that proudly preserves its heritage.

If you ever find yourself wandering through Piedmont, Denice is a hidden gem worth a detour—steeped in history, surrounded by rolling hills, and echoing with the stories of centuries past.