Castegnato
Castegnato: a peaceful town in Franciacorta
Castegnato is a charming town in the province of Brescia, situated in Franciacorta, southern Lombardy. This town of almost 8,500 inhabitants enjoys a flat position on a territory of just under 10 square kilometers and is located about 8 kilometers from the city of Brescia. The climate here is Mediterranean, but during the winter, fog often creeps into the countryside.
Physical geography
Castegnato is characterized by the presence of two hilly reliefs, namely Colle Lazzaretto, which is 145 meters above sea level, and Colle Sella, which is 158 meters above sea level, where there is a disused 4-hectare natural park called Bosco Sella. Its borders extend eastward along the Gandovere stream and westward along the canal of the Seriola Nuova di Chiari.
Origins of the name
The toponym "Castegnato" derives from a Latin word "castanea", which means "chestnut". However, scholars are not sure of the origin of the name as there are other theories. In any case, the toponym included in the local dialect is "Castignàt".
History
The origins of the town date back to the times of the Roman Empire when it was crossed by one of the main consular roads. In the Middle Ages, Castegnato was equipped with castles and was divided between the Santa Giulia monastery and the Rodengo monastery. In 1426, Castegnato became part of the Republic of Venice and had its administration in Quadra di Gussago and the Rovato district. In 1610, it had only 600 inhabitants, but began to develop thanks to the construction of the first schools and the opening of a women's college at the convent. Under the rule of Napoleon Bonaparte, Castegnato became part of Ospitaletto, but in 1816, when Austria established a new municipal organization, there was a final reunion.
Castegnato is a peaceful and welcoming town, with many picturesque villages scattered on its territories. Its inhabitants are famous for their friendliness and openness, always willing to welcome visitors and make them feel at home. Castegnato is an ideal place for those looking for a quiet holiday immersed in the greenery and idyllic landscapes of Lombardy.
