From the ancient name Cerretum and the remains dating back to the Roman time we can infer that the city was founded during the Roman conquest of the Cisalpine Gaul thanks to its strategic position between the streams Banna and Stura, at the meeting point of three valleys and on an important route. The Roman fortification on this territory was surrounded by forests of Turkey oats, in Italian "cerro", hence the name "Castrum Cerreti", then changed into Ciriacum with the advent of Christianity and the consequent habit of choosing a patron saint for each city.

Its military importance, which had already been understood by the Romans, was further enhanced by the building of a castle prior to the 13th century. Later on the castle became the official residence of Marchioness Margherita di Savoia , daughter of Amadeus V of Savoia and widow of the Marquis of Monferrato, who settled here with her lively court. This event marked a period of great economic prosperity for the borough of Ciriè and many noble families enriched the place with fine buildings to witness their refined tastes.

In 1576 the city passed from the Savoia family to Gian Girolamo D'Oria , Marquis of D'Oria, and his descendants following an exchange of land properties.

The D'Oria family chose Ciriè as their capital city and ruled over it till the early 1900s.

Ciriè is rich in historical buildings and monuments: unfortunately its ancient and well-known castle was destroyed by the French soldiers of Francis I in 1536. The remains of an old tower witness that around 1300 the Borough was surrounded by strong defensive walls which are still well-preserved along the main road. Here 15th century buildings with their terracotta facades and a medieval tower are supported by low arcades.

As any other land in Piedmont, over the centuries Ciriè went past the Wars of Succession to the Spanish and Austrian thrones and the siege by general Bonaparte's troops with disastrous consequences which were deeply resented by the population.

The slow passing of time has been marked by periods of glory and decay.

Finally in 1905 a Royal Decree signed by Vittorio Emanuele granted Ciriè the title of "City" : ".We declare as well that the same City is granted the right to use its coats of arms which consists of a silver cross on a red field sided on the first and fourth quarter by a golden torch."