The name, according to accredited opinions, derives from the Latin word "castellelletum" (little castle), while the second part of the name, Molina, is a very common surname in the area. Municipality in the province of Asti, located in the Upper Monferrato, bordering the territory of Alexandria, is situated on a small hill on the right side of the river Cervino and is surrounded by hills covered mainly by tidy placed vineyards from which, with the help of a mild climate and a good quantity of sunshine, are produced well known DOC wines, sold worldwide.
The discovery of important archaeological site evidence that the area was inhabited since Roman times. The site was certainly chosen for its particular central location, which encouraged the exchange of goods and communications. At the end of the Roman Empire, the territories were invaded by the Barbarians and the town became part of the Marquisate of Aleramo of Monferrato. In the later centuries it submitted the domain of the Paleologi, the Dukes of Mantua, the Savoy, the Porta of Acqui, the Marquis of Incisa, the Marquis Agnelli, the Veggi and the Thea.
Not to miss:
- the Church of San Bartolomeo, entitled to the Patron Saint of the town. The original construction, built in medieval times, was inside the castle walls, demolished in the XVII century and replaced by a new church, which has submitted several refurbishments during the XIX century. It presents a highly original façade with columns, a very rich portal and an original central Belll tower;
- the Church of the Confraternity of the Holy Trinity;
- the medieval castle, which is an imposing building with massive walls from which stand out five towers, covered with roofs since the XVII century;
- the XVII century Palace, located within the fortified walls, features a large hall decorated with a coffered ceiling of great value;
- the noble Chapel with an interesting painting of St. Francis of Paola;
- la Casa Rustica (the rural house)