Grezzo
Discover the village of Grezzo: history, geography, and places of interest
If you're looking for a nature getaway, the village of Grezzo might be just what you need. Located in the municipality of Bardi, in the province of Parma, this small village offers a lot to discover. In this article, we'll tell you about the history of Grezzo, its physical geography, and its most important landmarks.
Physical geography
Grezzo is located in the Parmesan Apennines, at an altitude of 700 meters above sea level on the left bank of the Dorbora stream, on the southern slopes of Mount Crodolo. A few kilometers away is the small village of Cogno di Grezzo, situated at an altitude of 808 meters above sea level. The area is surrounded by nature and offers hiking trails for those who want to take a walk or a mountain trip.
History
The history of Grezzo dates back to the early Middle Ages, when the primitive Church of San Michele Arcangelo was built along the branch of the Abbot's road that connected Bobbio with Pontremoli. This church was first mentioned in 905. At the beginning of the 12th century, the area was under the control of the municipality of Piacenza. In 1140, the people of Piacenza managed to convince Gherardo da Cornazzano, the owner of the nearby castle of Pietragemella, to give it to them in exchange for the court of Grezzo.
Throughout history, the village of Grezzo and its territory changed hands many times. In 1216, Lanfranco da Cornazzano gave up all rights to Grezzo, Pietragemella, Pietra Nera, Scopolo, and Monte Sané to the Marquis Guglielmo Pallavicino di Oberto, who sold them in the same year to Count Alberico Landi. In 1335, the fortress of Grezzo was mentioned among the assets of the Granelli and Lusardi families, allies of the Visconti family. In the following decades, the fortress was acquired once again by the Landi family, and in 1412 Manfredo Landi received confirmation of his investiture.
With the abolition of feudal rights decreed by Napoleon for the Duchy of Parma and Piacenza in 1805, Grezzo became a village in the new municipality of Bardi.
Landmarks and places of interest
Although it is a small village, Grezzo offers several landmarks and places of interest to visit.
Church of San Michele Arcangelo
The Church of San Michele Arcangelo was first mentioned in 905, but the current structure dates back to the 17th century. The Baroque facade features Corinthian pilasters, 18th-century stucco work, and frescoes in the nave and six side chapels. The bell tower was added between 1779 and 1790, and the church was consecrated in the late 19th century. In 1925, the church was raised.
Oratory of San Rocco
The Oratory of San Rocco was built in 1630 in Baroque style, but was renovated in neoclassical forms in 1801. The small structure is completely plastered and has a facade punctuated by pilasters and crowned by a triangular pediment.
Oratory of the Blessed Virgin of Caravaggio
The Oratory of the Blessed Virgin of Caravaggio was built in neoclassical style at the end of the 19th century in the village of Vischeto di Grezzo. The facade is plastered and has a small bell tower. The interior of the nave is decorated with a relief perimeter cornice, and the apse houses the high altar.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a mountain getaway that offers history, nature, and art, Grezzo might be just what you're looking for. From the frescoes in the Church of San Michele Arcangelo to the neoclassical architecture of the Oratory of the Blessed Virgin of Caravaggio, this small village offers plenty to discover and admire.
