In pre-Reformation times Waldensian missionaries were trained in a college at Pra del Torno by 'barbes', their pastors, to work as traders spreading their message across Europe.

There are both Catholic and Waldensian churches today situated at Pra del Torno, as well as in a number of other villages in the valley.

The Waldensians in Angrogna suffered fierce persecutions throughout the 17th century but were supported by Oliver Cromwell and William of Orange.

In 1686, Vittorio Amedeo II, in accordance with the policy of Louis XIV of France, began the systematic expulsion of the Waldensian valleys.

Local troops destroyed the houses of Waldensians and their land in the valley was expropriated and sold to Catholics coming from elsewhere in Piedmont.