Alessandria

Town in Piedmont, northern Italy, on the River Tanaro, 55 km/34 mi north of Turin; population (1999 est) 99,700. Alessandria is the market centre of a corn- and wine-producing district. Industries include engineering, chemical industries, and the manufacture of confectionery, footwear, hats, and cottons. It was founded in 1168 by Pope Alexander III as a defence against Frederick (I) Barbarossa.

The Citadella (fortress), part of the ancient fortifications of the town, built in 1728, is still standing. The churches of Santa María del Carmine and Santa María di Castello are also of interest, as is the Palazzo de Prefettura.

In July there is an annual motorcyclists' rally in the suburb of Castellazzo Bormida, at the shrine of their patroness, the Madonna of the Centaurs. An international classical guitar competition is held here every two years.

The site of the Battle of Marengo, scene of Napoleon's victory over the Austrians in 1800, lies 5 km/3 mi to the southeast.