Cumiana (Italy)

Since 2001, Erlangen has maintained a close, friendly relationship with the town of Cumiana—which has a population of 7,000 and is located in the northern Italian region of Piedmont, not far from the city of Turin—a relationship that ultimately grew out of the tragic events of World War II: During the German occupation, on April 3, 1944, 51 hostages—who had been arbitrarily selected from the town’s male population as an act of reprisal—were shot by German-Italian SS troops in Cumiana. Investigations in the 1990s revealed clues pointing to the alleged commander of this unit, a citizen of Erlangen, who subsequently died during his trial before a military court in Turin.

From the initial exchanges—which on the German side were supported not only by local politicians but above all by the Erlangen Alliance for Peace—trust and reconciliation began to develop. The focus of activities with Cumiana lies in the area of youth and cultural exchanges and, despite the difference in size between the two municipalities, holds a wide range of potential for the future.

Cumiana was first mentioned in a document as early as the year 810. The small town, which also includes the picturesque mountain hamlets known as “borgate,” is home to architectural treasures spanning over a thousand years, including its historic churches and Costa Castle.

Economically, Cumiana is oriented toward Turin, whose factories and offices provide employment for a large portion of its residents. In addition, there are companies in the immediate vicinity that produce goods made of rubber, sheet metal, plastic, or resins. Fruit growing dominates the agricultural sector, and in the spring, the hills surrounding the town are bathed in the white and pink hues of fruit blossoms.

Cumiana has a vibrant community life, ranging from sports to culture; old crafts and traditional festivals are being revived, especially in the “borgate.” The “Naturalmente Cumiana” fair, held annually in September, showcases the region’s artisanal and agricultural products. The mountains surrounding the town and a nature reserve offer hikers and mountaineers the opportunity to explore the magnificent natural beauty of Piedmont. A campground is currently being developed at an altitude of nearly 1,000 meters.

Cumiana has made it its mission to protect its environment and preserve its rich cultural and artistic heritage while ensuring controlled growth. These are goals that are supported by the local population and are realistically achievable.