Cantù
Discovering Cantù: a city rich in history
Hello friends, today we will talk about Cantù, a delightful city located in the province of Como, in Lombardy. With its approximately 38,000 inhabitants, Cantù is the second most populous city in the province after Como and the 25th in Lombardy. But let's discover together its history and the curiosities it hides.
Origins of the name
The name Cantù has ancient origins. In fact, it is believed to derive from a Latin toponym, ''Canturium'' or ''Canturio'', which, in turn, could derive from the ''Cantori'' who enlivened the religious life of the city. Another hypothesis refers to the Celtic population of the ''Canturigi,'' settled in the Insubria region between the 5th and 6th centuries BC. Another area of the city, Galliano, takes its name from the Celtic population of the ''Gallianates.''
History
Prehistory and ancient times
Man had already inhabited the Cantù area since the early Iron Age, as evidenced by the discovery of a cremation tomb from the 6th century BC. However, the real history of Cantù begins in the 5th century BC, when the Insubrian Gauls founded the village of Galliano on a morainic hill surrounded by woods. In 196 BC, the area was conquered by Roman legions led by Marcus Claudius Marcellus and was incorporated into the municipality of Como. Galliano was a strategically important commercial center because the ancient road linking Milan and Como passed through it. The Roman presence is attested by various archaeological finds and areas dedicated to the worship of Jupiter, Minerva and the Capitoline Triad.
High Middle Ages
In the 5th century AD, Galliano was elevated to a parish and took the name of ''Canturio.'' Here, the first Paleochristian basilica dedicated to Saint Vincent of Saragossa was built. In 483, Pope Gelasius I declared Cantù a Royal Court along with other lands. In 605, the Canturine territory separated from that of Como, becoming a suffragan diocese of the Patriarchate of Aquileia. In the 10th century, Cantù and the court of Intimiano were united in the Martesana District controlled by Milan.
Late Middle Ages and Renaissance
Ariberto, the future Archbishop of Milan, was born from noble lords of Capiago Intimiano of Canturine origins. In 1004-1005 Ariberto restored the basilica of Galliano and reconsecrated it to Saint Vincent.
What to visit in Cantù
Obviously, the basilica of Galliano is a must-see for anyone visiting Cantù. The monumental complex has been restored and is open to visitors. In the historic center, you can admire the churches of San Paolo and San Francesco, and the Palazzo della Meridiana, dating back to the 17th century. Art lovers cannot miss the Civic Art Gallery, which houses works by local painters.
Events
Cantù offers numerous opportunities to spend a day of fun and culture. Every year, in September, the patron saint festival of San Vincenzo takes place, during which the city comes alive with concerts, shows, and markets. In the summer, there are numerous fairs dedicated to local products, such as the Lumina, Polenta, and Sausage fairs.
Cuisine
Cantù is known for the production of cheese, especially the famous ''Strachitunt Cantù,'' PDO since 1996. But not only cheese: among the typical products of the Canturine cuisine, we find polenta taragna, sbrisolona, and risotto alla canturina, with porcini mushrooms and sausage.
Conclusions
Cantù is a city rich in history, art, and culture. Its strategic position, a few kilometers from Como and Milan, makes it an ideal destination for a day trip. Visit the basilica of Galliano, taste the typical products of the local cuisine, and participate in the numerous fairs and festivals that animate the city throughout the year. Cantù is waiting for you!
