Moncalvo, an ancient village of Roman origin, is the historical capital of Monferrato. The name Moncalvo derives from the Latin name Mons Calvus, or Monte di Calvo, the Roman nobleman who built his own villa and around which the town developed.

Named a city in 1705 by the Duke of Mantua Ferdinando Carlo Gonzaga, it is known for its food and wine excellences: Barbera d'Asti DOCG, fatty ox meat, white truffles and agnolotti. The main events include: