Castel del Rio
Welcome to Castel del Rio
If you're looking for a place rich in history, nature, and tranquility, you can't miss Castel del Rio, a municipality located in the metropolitan city of Bologna, in Emilia-Romagna. With its 1,201 inhabitants, Castel del Rio is the perfect place for a getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Let's explore Castel del Rio's geography
The municipality of Castel del Rio lies along the Santerno River and is about 25 kilometers away from the city of Imola. The area falls into the climatic classification zone F, 3300 GR/G, which means that spring and autumn are mild and rainy, while summer can be hot. The winter is cold, but sunny.
Let's discover Castel del Rio's history
Ancient roots
Castel del Rio has ancient roots: the oldest settlements date back to the 6th and 5th centuries BCE, and burial sites with burial goods can be found. The area where the municipality stands today was partly urbanized and crossed by communication routes in Roman times.
Massa di Sant'Ambrogio
Halfway between Castel del Rio and the Montefune village is Massa di Sant'Ambrogio. This medieval origin settlement had a parish church, but it is not known for certain why it was dedicated to Sant'Ambrogio, since the Saint does not belong to the local tradition. According to some interpretations, the settlement was founded by refugees from Milan fleeing from barbarian invasions.
The era of the Alidosi
Massa di Sant'Ambrogio was one of the possessions of Matilde di Canossa and later of the bishop of Imola, before passing to the Alidosi family, who held it for over four centuries. The fiefdom later had various owners, including the Cantagallo, Sforza, and Medici families.
The origin of Castel del Rio
The name of the municipality derives from the Rio stream, which flows near the settlement and flows into the Santerno. On a spur overlooking the river was built one of the Alidosi's secondary homes. When they were driven out of their palace in Massa di Sant'Ambrogio, they found refuge in this place and placed their residence there. The first mention of the castle dates back to 1292.
Castel del Rio today
The site where Castel del Rio stands today was originally the commercial square of Castrum Rivi. The municipality is famous for its natural beauty, with its chestnut forests, hiking trails, and crystal-clear waters. The historic center of Castel del Rio offers numerous cultural and architectural attractions.
What to see in Castel del Rio
The cultural heritage of Castel del Rio is vast, ranging from the oldest evidence of human presence in the area to works of art and historic buildings. Here are some of the places you can't miss if you visit Castel del Rio:
The Civic Archaeological Museum
The Civic Archaeological Museum of Castel del Rio preserves archaeological evidence dating back to the prehistoric era, the Roman civilization, and the Middle Ages. Among the most interesting finds are statues, mosaics, and ancient coins.
The Church of San Lorenzino
The Church of San Lorenzino is a place of worship of Romanesque origin, built in the 13th century on a pre-existing Lombard-era religious building. The facade is made of exposed bricks, enriched by a Gothic portal.
The Castellaccio degli Alidosi
The Castellaccio degli Alidosi is a stone building dating back to the 13th century, which was the summer residence of the local lords. The building has recently been restored and is open to the public.
The Ponte Vecchio
The Ponte Vecchio is a stone bridge dating back to the 15th century, which crosses the Santerno River. Its architecture is very peculiar and characteristic.
Castel del Rio, a place for everyone
Castel del Rio is a welcoming municipality that offers its visitors an unforgettable experience in nature and culture. Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the many opportunities for mountain trekking, while those seeking relaxation and tranquility can enjoy a walk through the alleys of the historic center. Castel del Rio is also a perfect place for families with children, thanks to the presence of parks and gardens.
Conclusions
Castel del Rio is a hidden gem of Emilia-Romagna, which deserves to be discovered and appreciated. Its millennial history and lush nature make it a unique place that leaves a mark on the heart of those who visit it. Don't hesitate to include Castel del Rio in your next adventure in historic Romagna!
