Borgofranco sul Po
Borgofranco sul Po: a gem in the heart of Lower Mantua
Borgofranco sul Po, affectionately called "Bufrànch" in the Lower Mantuan dialect, is a geographical hamlet with a population of 775, located in the Comune of Borgocarbonara, in the province of Mantua, Lombardy.
Physical Geography
The area is situated along the embankment of the River Po and is characterized by alluvial soils and a humid climate, which allows for the spontaneous and pollution-free development of the prized truffle. It is here, in fact, that centuries-old truffle fields can be found, which are an important part of the local gastronomic culture.
Etymology
The hamlet probably derives its name from its condition as a "franco" territory, that is, free from taxes, being on the border between the provinces of Mantua and Rovigo.
History
Borgofranco was created in 1816 by the German rulers of the former Lombardo-Veneto Kingdom, separating it from Revere. In 1867, the name of the municipality was changed by royal decree.
Since September 2015, together with the municipalities of Carbonara di Po, Felonica, Magnacavallo, Poggio Rusco, and Sermide, it has been part of the dissolved Union of the Six Oltrepò Municipalities.
On January 1, 2019, following the consultative popular referendum of February 11, 2018, Borgofranco merged with the municipality of Carbonara di Po to give birth to the new municipality of Borgocarbonara.
Symbols
The municipal coat of arms was blazoned:
Demography
Over the years, there has been a demographic change in the area. In 1961, the population was 1264, gradually decreasing to the current 775.
Culture
Borgofranco sul Po hosts a fair dedicated to white truffles, the "Tuberfood - National Fair of White Truffle of Borgofranco sul Po," active since 1995. The fair represents an important meeting point for enthusiasts and lovers of truffles from all over the world.
Borgofranco also hosts a museum dedicated to truffles, the Tru.Mu., where visitors can discover all the secrets and curiosities of this local product.
Another typical dish of the area is the turtèl sguasaròt, a version of a waffle filled with buckwheat, potatoes, and sausage.
Administration
Notes
Bibliography
Related Articles
- Union of the Six Oltrepò Municipalities
Other Projects
In summary, Borgofranco sul Po is a small gem in the heart of Lower Mantua, characterized by the beauty of the River Po and the presence of centuries-old truffle fields. Here also are found the Museum of Truffles and the Tuberfood Fair, which are two must-see attractions for truffle enthusiasts. The local gastronomy also offers a typical dish, the turtèl sguasaròt, an explosion of flavors that tells the story of a land rich in tradition. Borgofranco sul Po represents an example of how history and culture can become a reference point for the present and future of a community.
