Borgo Val di Taro
Discovering Borgo Val di Taro
Hello friends, today we will talk about one of the most beautiful and characteristic municipalities in Emilia-Romagna: Borgo Val di Taro, or as many affectionately call it, Borgotaro. Located in the province of Parma, Borgo Val di Taro is a municipality of 6,672 inhabitants nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains along the Taro river.
Physical Geography
Territory
Borgo Val di Taro is characterized by a mountainous territory, but at the same time rich in lively and green valleys, whose landscape is made even more suggestive by the presence of the Taro river that runs through it. The municipality is surrounded by mountains covered with dense beech and chestnut forests, which offer postcard-worthy views.
Climate
The climate of Borgo Val di Taro is typically temperate, with cold and snowy winters and mild and breezy summers. Thanks to its position nestled among the mountains, the municipality enjoys a fresh and dry climate, perfect for those who want to escape the hot summer days.
History
Borgo Val di Taro has a millenary history that can be traced back to prehistory. Over the centuries, the municipality has seen many civilizations pass through, including the Ligurians, Gauls, and Romans, as well as the Lombards and Medieval.
In Roman times
Before being inhabited by the Romans, the Borgo Val di Taro area was populated by the Ligurian Veleiates, who resisted strenuously against Gallic and Roman invasions. However, in 157 BC, the Roman legions definitively conquered the area, putting an end to the resistance of the Ligurians. The strategic position of Borgo Val di Taro, in the heart of the Taro valley, made it an important center for the Roman Empire.
In the Middle Ages
With the advent of the Lombards, Borgo Val di Taro became an important center for the Val Taro. Thanks to its strategic position, the administered territory increased, growing the political and economic power. Between the 8th and 10th centuries, many Columbanian monasteries arose in the territory, which had jurisdiction over vast territories, such as the Abbey of San Colombano in Bobbio. The court of Torresana was one of the major rural centers of the entire Taro valley.
In the 9th century, the King of Italy, Lothair I, confirmed the rights of the monks of Bobbio on the territory and the court of Torresana, mentioned in 833 in the Abbreviationes of Abbot Wala among the possessions of the monastery. Over the centuries, Borgo Val di Taro continued to be an important strategic and political center for the entire area.
What to see in Borgo Val di Taro
The historic center
The historic center of Borgo Val di Taro is a real gem to discover. Walking through its streets, among ancient stone houses and narrow alleys, is a unique experience. Among the places to visit, the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista, a majestic church built in the 13th century, and the Church of San Francesco, dating back to the 15th century.
The Old Bridge
The Old Bridge of Borgo Val di Taro is one of the symbols of the municipality. Built in the 17th century, this splendid three-arch bridge magnificently crosses the Taro river. Its irresistible charm makes it the perfect place for a romantic walk or an unforgettable selfie.
The Archaeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum of Borgo Val di Taro preserves numerous artifacts that testify to the millenary history of the municipality and its surrounding area. Among the most important pieces of the museum, the Roman mosaic found in the Castle of Groppoli.
Events and Festivals
The Porcini Mushroom Festival
Borgo Val di Taro is famous above all for the production of porcini mushrooms, one of the typical products of Emilia-Romagna. To celebrate these delicacies, every year in Borgo Val di Taro the Porcini Mushroom Festival is held, an event that attracts visitors from all over Italy.
The Borgotarese Summer
During the summer months, Borgo Val di Taro organizes the "Borgotarese Summer" event, a series of events that include concerts, theatrical performances, and cultural activities. A season of fun and discovery of local traditions.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Borgo Val di Taro is a municipality that deserves to be visited for its natural beauty, its millenary history, and its gastronomic tradition. Its mountains, forests, and landscapes are an authentic oasis of peace and tranquility. If you are looking for a destination for your holidays in Italy, why not choose Borgo Val di Taro? You won't regret it!
