**ALESSANDRIA, DIOCESE OF**
In Piedmont, at the confluence of the Bormida and Tanaro rivers, in a strategically important position. Alessandria was founded in 1168, with the approval of the rectors of the Lombard League, by decree of the Ligurian towns that wished to free themselves from the yoke of the Marquis of Monferrato and the Del Bosco family, and it received the support of Alexander III, from whom it took its name. Since it was intended to serve as a stronghold for the Guelphs against Frederick Barbarossa, Milanese, Cremonese, and Piacentine troops aided and defended the conspiring Ligurians against the disturbers, and Genoa itself rendered valuable assistance in its foundation. In 1174 it was besieged by Barbarossa, but in vain. It engaged in lively struggles against the Marquises of Monferrato, successfully freeing itself from their dominion for good with the Peace of 1306. In the 14th and 15th centuries it was subject to the Visconti, and from 1495, following the Peace of Cambrai, to the French.
ALESSANDRIA – ALEXANDRIA OF EGYPT
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