Borgo San Siro
Welcome to Borgo San Siro: a brief introduction to the city
If you are looking for a peaceful and authentic place in Lombardy, we recommend visiting Borgo San Siro. This city is located in eastern Lomellina, not far from the Ticino River, and has a population of around 953 inhabitants. Borgo San Siro takes its name from the local patron, San Siro of Pavia, and was the seat of an important lordship.
In this article, we will explore the history, symbols, and places of interest of this fascinating city.
History of Borgo San Siro
Since the 10th century, Borgo San Siro has belonged to the San Salvatore monastery in Pavia, like many other cities in the area, including nearby Garlasco. In 1250, it was listed as "Burgum S.Syri" in the list of lands subject to the rule of Pavia. In the following century, it was subjugated to the Beccaria lordship, shared with nearby Tromello, until the death without heirs of Agostino Beccaria in 1475. Agostino had designated the lordship of Borgo San Siro to the Ospedale Maggiore di San Matteo in Pavia, which maintained control of the city until the abolition of feudalism.
The commune passed under the rule of the Casa Savoia in 1713 and continued to be a border town until 1743, when adjacent Vigevanasco was still part of the State of Milan. In the 18th century, the commune of "Cassina de Magni" was merged with Borgo San Siro, as was the hamlet of "Torrazza" in 1927, separated from Tromello.
Hamlets
Borgo San Siro is composed of two main hamlets: Cassina de Magni and Torrazza. Cassina de Magni was an autonomous commune until the 18th century when it was merged with Borgo San Siro. Torrazza, on the other hand, had feudal ties to Tromello and belonged to the Dominican fathers of Vigevano. Over the years, Torrazza was merged with Borgo San Siro in the Napoleonic era, then joined Tromello, and finally became a permanent hamlet of Borgo San Siro in 1927.
The symbols of Borgo San Siro
The coat of arms of Borgo San Siro was recently granted thanks to a decree from the President of the Republic on May 9, 1997. The city symbol depicts the church of San Siro and an eagle, in tribute to the Beccaria family that ruled Borgo San Siro for many years. The flag is a white cloth.
Monuments and places of interest
If you visit Borgo San Siro, don't miss the Church of San Siro. This church was built on the foundations of an ancient church from the 13th century and completed in 1732. The church is in Baroque style, with a Greek cross plan. Inside, you will find the tombs of Agostino Beccaria and his wife Zaccarina Lonati, a marble balustrade of the main altar, and a series of statues of the apostles.
The façade of the Church of San Siro is characterized by the fresco of the patron saint, while on the pulpit, we find an inlaid work. An important restoration work has recently been completed on the façade and the square.
The other place of interest in Borgo San Siro is Palazzo Durazzo, owned by the homonymous marquises. This building is located in the square of the small hamlet of Torrazza and represents the maximum example of art and value of the hamlet.
Conclusions
In this article, we have explored the history, symbols, and places of interest of Borgo San Siro. This city is a fascinating place, rich in history and culture. If you are looking for a peaceful refuge in Lombardy, Borgo San Siro is the right place.
