History of the Aosta Valley
Salassi, Romans, Savoy, Italy: the main periods, simply told
The Aosta Valley is a corridor between Italy, France and Switzerland. Over the centuries, very different peoples have passed through it or ruled it. This article traces the main stages. For a quick overview, see also:
From the first inhabitants to the Romans
The oldest traces of settlement go back to the Neolithic, several thousand years ago. During the 1st millennium BC the valley was occupied by the Salassi, a people generally linked to the Celts. They were known for their gold mines and their warlike nature. They controlled the Alpine passes.
Rome eventually took an interest in these routes. After long campaigns, the Romans subdued the Salassi and in 25 BC founded the town of Augusta Praetoria, present-day Aosta. The town soon became an important stopping point for trade and the army. It left a lasting mark on the region.
Franks, Burgundians, then Savoy
After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the valley went through a long period of instability. At the end of the 6th century it passed to the Franks. In the 10th century it was part of the Kingdom of Burgundy. Its rulers changed often.
In the 11th century the House of Savoy appeared in the valley’s history. Around 1032, Humbert I “the White-Handed” obtained the county of Aosta. This was the start of Savoyard rule, which would last several centuries and shape the valley’s identity.
Castles and reforms
In the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the great noble families built or remodelled many castles. Many can still be visited today.
In the 18th century the rulers of Savoy reformed the administration of their states, and the valley was affected by these changes.
Italy, Fascism and autonomy
In 1861 the Aosta Valley became part of the new Kingdom of Italy. French gradually gave way to Italian in schools and in the administration. Under Fascism, Italianisation became an enforced policy. These pressures led to tension and to cultural resistance.
During the Second World War the valley was occupied by the German army from September 1943 to the spring of 1945. The Resistance was very active there.
In 1948 the Aosta Valley became an autonomous region, in recognition of its own history and culture. This status allows it to keep its bilingualism and its traditions. It also gives it wide administrative and fiscal autonomy.
Today
The valley still lives between Italian and French-speaking influences. It looks after its heritage, its castles, its Roman roads and its languages, while facing the questions of today.
