Barbariga
Welcome to Barbariga: an immersion in the history and culture of the city of casoncelli and more
Welcome to Barbariga, a municipality in the province of Brescia in Lombardy, known worldwide for its famous production of casoncelli. But Barbariga not only offers culinary specialties, but also an infinity of tourist attractions and an interesting history that is worth exploring. In this article, I will take you on a journey through this city, revealing its secrets, culture, and hidden monuments.
Physical geography
Located in a plain area, Barbariga was once occupied by a swamp that the Benedictine monks of the Abbey of Leno managed to reclaim. The land, suitable for maize cultivation due to its ability to retain water, is fed by a system of canals and springs, including those in the Morti di San Gervasio area. In the last twenty years, two main wells have been excavated, one near the cemetery and the other at the entrance of Frontignano, which provide water to the city.
History
The oldest part of the city dates back to the year 1000, when the monks reclaimed the area. In the thirteenth century, the first reference to the municipality of Barbaricha appeared. In 1762, citizens protested to Feroldina against the cultivation of rice, which led to the spread of malaria. Since then, maize became the main crop of the city. Other important events in the history of Barbariga include the miracle of the Madonna del Ducco, which led to the construction of the church of San Vito (now discipline of San Pietro Martire) in the fifteenth century, and the construction of the Baroque church of San Vito in 1752.
Symbols
The coat of arms of Barbariga, consisting of a knight's spur, an Angio' chief, and a tower, is a clear representation of the city's history. The spur refers to the Masperoni family, originally from Brescia, while the Angio' chief refers to the Guelph faction of Barbariga. The tower recalls the medieval origins of the city.
Monuments and places of interest
Parish Church
Designed by Antonio Marchetti, the church of Barbariga has a two-order facade and a two-bay interior. The pilasters and the crushed apse give the building an elegant and extremely harmonious appearance. The interior of the church is decorated with numerous paintings, including San Vito by Pietro Marone.
Discipline of San Pietro Martire
The former church of San Vito, now the discipline of San Pietro Martire, dates back to the fifteenth century. The church has a polygonal apse, decorated with traces of frescoes depicting the shoes of Saints Vito and Modesto. The remaining two bays are rich in Corinthian and Ionic style chapels.
Casoncelli di Barbariga
You cannot visit Barbariga without tasting the famous casoncelli, a typical specialty of the city. These meat-filled ravioli are seasoned with butter, sage, and Parmigiano Reggiano and represent a true symbol of Barbariga's culinary culture. In 2004, casoncelli were protected with the "Denominazione Comunale d'Origine" mark.
Palio del Mortaretto
The Palio del Mortaretto is a traditional horse race held every September in the northern area of Barbariga. This event, which always attracts many visitors, is a reproduction of the challenge between the various hamlets of the city.
Art in Barbariga
Barbariga hosts numerous contemporary art pieces, such as the iron sculpture by Mino Foshini, located near the Town Hall, and the large bronze artwork by Carola Emiliani, representing a father embracing his child.
In conclusion, Barbariga is a municipality that combines the natural beauty of the plain, Lombard culinary culture, rich history, and contemporary art. With its monuments, traditions, and beauty, it offers a wide range of attractions for every type of traveler.
