Pragelato

The territory of Pragelato has long been known for its rich natural and forested heritage, dotted with numerous settlements, some of which, unfortunately destroyed by wars or floods, no longer exist. Pragelato is also notable for its historic hamlets, and it can be said that the very history of Pragelato is closely intertwined with the history of these hamlets.

The earliest records of Pragelato date back to the Middle Ages. Between the 11th and 12th centuries, this area became a target of expansion by the Dauphins of Vienne, who gradually took control of the entire upper Chisone Valley. From 1343 to 1713, Pragelato, along with other Alpine areas, became part of an autonomous region known as the “Republic of the Escartons,” a remarkable example of administrative autonomy and an early form of democracy. The inhabitants enjoyed fewer restrictions from the Dauphiné and greater freedom in association and land management. Although this autonomy eventually ended, the mountains had by then fostered a strong cultural unity based on Alpine traditions and ways of life that endure to this day. Signs of this unique history can be seen in the widespread use of the French language until the early 1900s, the Alpine Provençal dialect still spoken in family circles, the architectural style of the houses, the use of sundials, and the lilies and dolphins that still adorn doorframes and fountain stones.