Saluzzo, known by various names reflecting its rich linguistic heritage—[saˈluttso] in Italian, Salusse [saˈlyse] in Piedmontese, Saluces [salys] in French, and Saluças [saˈlysɔs] in Occitan—is a captivating town nestled within the province of Cuneo, located in Italy's picturesque Piedmont region. Historically, it held significant influence as a former principality, specifically a marquisate, playing a crucial role in the political landscape of medieval and Renaissance Italy.

The city itself is beautifully situated atop a prominent hill, offering a commanding view over a vast, fertile plain below, which has long been meticulously cultivated. This strategic location not only provided natural defenses but also fostered agricultural prosperity. Beyond its rich soil, the surrounding mountains contribute to the region's natural wealth, being abundant in valuable mineral resources such as iron, lead, and silver, alongside quarries providing marble and slate. As of January 1, 2017, Saluzzo was home to a vibrant community numbering 16,968 residents.

Saluzzo is also celebrated as the birthplace of two notable figures who left indelible marks on Italian culture and beyond: Silvio Pellico, a renowned writer whose memoirs became a powerful symbol of the Italian Risorgimento, and Giambattista Bodoni, an illustrious typographer whose innovative designs profoundly influenced the art of printing.

The Tumultuous Reign and Usurpation Attempts of Manfred V

The history of Saluzzo as a marquisate is punctuated by periods of significant political intrigue and conflict, nowhere more dramatically illustrated than in the life and ambitions of Manfred V. He held the title of marquess of Saluzzo during two distinct periods, from 1330 to 1332, and later as a usurper from 1341 to 1342.

Manfred V was the second son of Manfred IV of Saluzzo, but crucially, he was the first son born to Manfred IV's second wife, Isabella Doria. The considerable influence wielded by Isabella at court proved instrumental in shaping her husband's succession plans. Against the traditional rights of primogeniture, Manfred IV was persuaded to designate Manfred V as his successor, intending him to become the sixth marquess of Saluzzo.

A Disputed Succession and Forced Abdication

However, upon Manfred IV's death in 1330, the carefully laid plans quickly unraveled. Frederick, Manfred IV's eldest son from his first marriage, rightfully contested the throne, igniting a bitter civil war that plunged the marquisate into turmoil. The conflict drew in powerful external players, including Frederick's astute cousin, Amadeus VI of Savoy, who intervened to mediate the dispute. The tide turned decisively against Manfred V when, in 1334, a damaging scandal involving his own mother came to light. This significant political and personal blow severely weakened his standing, ultimately forcing him to cede the throne to his brother, Frederick.

The Usurper's Return and Devastation of Saluzzo

Peace, however, was short-lived. Following Frederick's death in 1336, Manfred V seized another opportunity to reclaim what he believed was his by right. He declared war on the legitimate heir, his young nephew Thomas II. Leading an army primarily composed of Angevin mercenaries, Manfred launched a brutal campaign. In 1341, after a relatively brief siege, the city of Saluzzo was forced to surrender to his forces. What followed was a devastating sack of the city, during which its historic castle was also destroyed. Thomas II was captured and imprisoned, leaving Manfred V temporarily in control.

The Final Downfall

Manfred V's renewed hold on Saluzzo was largely predicated on the support of his powerful protector, Robert of Anjou, the King of Naples. Yet, the complex web of Italian politics proved to be his undoing. When the fortunes of Robert of Anjou began to decline, particularly after his defeat at the Battle of Gamenario, Manfred V's position became untenable. The influential Visconti family, who were rapidly expanding their power across Lombardy and into Piedmont, compelled Manfred to abandon Saluzzo in 1342, effectively ending his ambitions and usurped rule permanently.

Frequently Asked Questions about Saluzzo and Manfred V

What is Saluzzo?

Saluzzo is a historic town and former principality (marquisate) in the province of Cuneo, located in the Piedmont region of Italy. It's known for its strategic hill location overlooking a fertile plain and its rich history.

What languages are associated with the name Saluzzo?

The town's name has pronunciations in Italian (Saluzzo), Piedmontese (Salusse), French (Saluces), and Occitan (Saluças), reflecting its diverse historical and cultural influences across regional and national borders.

What natural resources are found in the Saluzzo region?

The mountains surrounding Saluzzo are rich in various minerals, including iron, lead, and silver, as well as valuable stone resources like marble and slate.

Who are some famous individuals born in Saluzzo?

Saluzzo is the birthplace of Silvio Pellico, a significant Italian writer and patriot, and Giambattista Bodoni, a highly influential typographer and printer known for his distinctive typefaces.

Who was Manfred V of Saluzzo?

Manfred V was a historical figure who served as marquess of Saluzzo from 1330 to 1332 and later attempted to usurp the title from 1341 to 1342. His life was marked by dynastic disputes and political conflict within the marquisate.

Why was Manfred V's succession disputed?

Manfred V, though designated by his father Manfred IV, was the second son. His elder brother, Frederick, had a stronger claim based on traditional primogeniture. This led to a civil war upon their father's death in 1330.

What led to Manfred V's initial abdication in 1334?

After a civil war and the intervention of Amadeus VI of Savoy, Manfred V was ultimately forced to cede the throne to his brother Frederick in 1334. This decision was significantly influenced by a damaging scandal involving his own mother, Isabella Doria, which undermined his political legitimacy and support.

What impact did Manfred V's second attempt to seize power have on Saluzzo?

During his second campaign in 1341, Manfred V's forces besieged and ultimately sacked the city of Saluzzo, causing significant destruction, including the castle. He also imprisoned the legitimate heir, his nephew Thomas II.

Why did Manfred V ultimately lose control of Saluzzo in 1342?

Manfred V's power was heavily dependent on the support of Robert of Anjou, King of Naples. When Robert's political fortunes declined after the Battle of Gamenario, and with pressure from the rising Visconti family, Manfred V was compelled to abandon Saluzzo, ending his rule.