Castelcovati
Castelcovati: a Brescia municipality to discover
Castelcovati is a small municipality located in the western part of the Lower Brescian area, province of Brescia. Despite its little more than 6,800 inhabitants, this town possesses a very interesting history and culture to discover. In this article, we will take you on a tour of Castelcovati, its hidden treasures, and its history.
Physical geography
Territory
The territory of Castelcovati is located in the north-west part of the Po Valley and presents a center inhabited that is about 31 km away from Brescia, the province's capital. Unlike many other areas in neighbouring Lombardy, Castelcovati is devoid of any natural relief or watercourses, except for the Castellana, the main artificial canal that comes from Urago d'Oglio and heads towards Trenzano and Castrezzato. In the southern part of Castelcovati's territory, some springs can also be found, present in the nearby municipality of Comezzano-Cizzago. It is also worth noting that Castelcovati is located in a seismic zone 2, meaning an area with medium seismic hazards, where somewhat intense earthquakes can occur.
Climate
The climate of Castelcovati can be classified as a subcontinental temperate climate, with long and cold winters, hot and humid summers, and a high humidity rate. According to the Italian municipality climatic classification, Castelcovati is, therefore, considered a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) according to Köppen.
Origins of the name
The name Castelcovati has ancient and not entirely certain origins. In 1380, the village was named Castrocovatorum, while in the 15th century, it was renamed Castrumcovatorum, and in the 16th century, it became Castro de Covadi. Although historians disagree on the toponym's origin, it is thought to have something to do with the noble family of Covati, although this hypothesis is poorly supported by historical documents.
History
Castelcovati's territory was a marshy and swampy area that was later reclaimed. The first settlements date back to the 12th century when the church of S. Maria della Nuvole was built in the centre of the agricultural village. The church was originally called "Lignigula," which may have something to do with the countryside wrestled from the marsh and the swamps. In May 1220, Obertino Gambara, the podestà of Brescia, removed any taxes from the small castle - which was not actually a real castle but only a stronghold for the protection of the settlers who inhabited the village - present on Castelcovati's territory. Thanks to the municipal immunities, the village took the name of Villafranca.
Over the centuries, Castelcovati became an important agricultural area, with various farms and high-quality meat and cheese products. Although the territory does not have great monuments or historical palaces, it is interesting to visit the Church of San Salvatore, a place of worship with great suggestion dating back to the 17th century.
Culture and traditions
In Castelcovati, traditions and cultural events are still very much alive and rooted in the community. One of the most important is the feast of San Salvatore, the patron saint of the village, which is celebrated every year at the end of July or beginning of August. During the celebrations, there are parades, music, dances, and fireworks shows. Also, don't miss the porchetta festival, which takes place every year and is an opportunity to taste the typical porchetta sandwich accompanied by wine and local products.
Conclusion
Castelcovati is a town that has a lot to offer, both from a historical and cultural point of view. The territory is rich in traditions and high-quality products, and the people are friendly and welcoming. If you want to discover a lesser-known but equally fascinating corner of Lombardy, Castelcovati is the right place for you.
