one of the provinces into which the kingdom of Sardinia is divided. It is bounded north and east by Vercelli and Mortara, south by Alessandria, and west by Asti and Turin. It has an area of 340 square miles, and a population (1848) of 120,425, most of whom are engaged in the culture of the vine, the tending of sheep, and the production of silk.
the capital of the above province, is situated on the right bank of the Po, 38 miles east from Turin. It was anciently a strong fortress, but has been recently (1849) still further strengthened and improved. It is the see of a bishop, and contains a very ancient cathedral. Its churches are possessed of several fine works of art; and that of San Domenico, in which is the tomb of the Paleologi, is remarkable for the elegance of its design. Among its other buildings are an ancient clock-tower, several palaces of the nobility, a college, and a theatre. The courts of justice for the province are held here. The only manufacture is that of silk. The population is rather more than 20,000.