Mondovì

Mondovi: Piazza Maggiore

Mondovì, town, Piemonte (Piedmont) region, northwestern Italy. It lies along the Ellero River, east of Cuneo, the capital city.

Founded in 1198 by refugees from the regional wars between the city-states and communes, it was independent until the 13th century, when it was subordinated to the Angevins (French counts of Anjou). Regaining its freedom in 1290, it fell to Anjou again in 1305, only to pass through numerous hands before passing to Savoy in 1396. It became a bishopric in 1388 and was the seat of a university from 1560 to 1719. Mondovì was the scene of Napoleon’s victory over Austro-Sardinian forces in 1796.

Mondovì is divided into an old upper town and a largely industrial lower town. Notable landmarks include the cathedral (1743–63) and the Missione (or Gesù) Church (1678). Nearby is the Santuario di Vicoforte, a pilgrimage church begun in 1596.

Mondovì manufactures iron and steel products, ceramics, paper, plastics, and chemicals. There are marble and quartz quarries in the vicinity. Pop. (2006 est.) mun., 22,048.