The first settlements in this area of the plain date back to the prehistoric era, then continuing to the Roman era, a period we know about thanks to a number of findings unearthed in the Trebbietta region. Subsequently, the territory of Cavallermaggiore became the target of the expansionist aspirations of several lords. These ranged from the Marquises of Turin to Bonifacio del Vasto, from the Marquesses of Busca to the Lords of Rossana and from the Marquisate of Saluzzo to the Acajas. Finally, from 1418, the territory passed to the House of Savoy and the history of the city was linked to the events of the family.

The ideal place to begin a tour of the town is Palazzo Garneri, built in the 16th century. With its elegant courtyard edged by loggias in the middle of the beautiful central street, today it is used as the Town Hall. Continuing along the same street, we find ourselves in front of a baroque style church, with elliptical plan, known as the Chiesa di San Bernardino or Chiesa dei Disciplinanti Bianchi, a splendid example of architect Francesco Gallo’s mastery and frescoed by the Pozzo brothers.

Besides its monuments, the city’s cultural heritage is also enriched by its festivals, artists and men of science, not to mention a few peculiar traditions. Cavallermaggiore was the birthplace of well-known singer-songwriter Gianmaria Testa. For many years it was also the summer residence of scientist Ascanio Sobrero, the first person to synthesize nitroglycerin.

Every year, in December, two important events attract visitors to the city. One is the Book Exhibition, which brings together writers and artists from the local small and medium-sized publishing industry, and the other is the traditional Christmas nativity scene, a popular event, especially for families. In recent years, the Sketchmate Urban Art Festival was also held in Cavallermaggiore, a meeting place for street artists from all over Europe, who created a real open-air exhibition by painting wonderful works of art on the walls of the city.