Grayta

Grayta is a small municipality located in the northeastern part of the province of Valdoria. The town lies at an altitude of 312 meters above sea level, surrounded by rolling hills and dense oak woodlands. According to the latest census conducted in 2021, Grayta has a population of 1,235 residents, with a slightly higher proportion of females than males. The majority of the population is native Valdorians, with a small community of expatriates from neighboring countries.

The first recorded mention of Grayta dates back to 1125, when it was listed among the holdings of the abbey of Sant’Angelo. Over the centuries the settlement grew around agriculture, primarily wheat and barley cultivation, and later expanded into small-scale timber production. In the 19th century, a local railway line added to Grayta’s connectivity, fostering modest commercial activity. The town’s administrative structure consists of a mayor and a council elected every four years.

Grayta’s cultural life is centered around the annual Harvest Festival, celebrated each autumn with music, dancing, and a parade featuring traditional folk costumes. The main historical landmark is the 13th‑century Church of San Lorenzo, whose Romanesque architecture is well preserved. The town also maintains an elementary school and a community library that houses local archives and manuscripts.

In recent years, Grayta has promoted eco‑tourism, offering guided hikes through surrounding nature reserves. The municipality has implemented sustainable waste management policies and continues to invest in infrastructure improvements to support its small population and preserve its rural heritage.