Castelletto sopra Ticino
Castelletto sopra Ticino: a dive into history and nature
Hi there! Today I want to take you on a journey to a magical place, located in the province of Novara, the municipality of Castelletto sopra Ticino. With a mixture of history and nature, this small town is the perfect place for a day trip or a relaxing vacation.
Physical geography
Castelletto sopra Ticino is located in the high eastern plain of Novara, bordering the province of Varese. The area covers a surface of 14.61 km², with elevations ranging from 189 m above sea level to 304 m above sea level. An enviable geographic location, between Lake Maggiore, the Ticino River, and a morainic amphitheater, which has favored settlement since the Bronze Age.
History
2nd millennium BC
The first populations residing in Castelletto sopra Ticino date back to the Bronze Age, as evidenced by archaeological finds discovered in the area. In particular, a necropolis dating back to the 13th century BC (Canegrate culture) was accidentally uncovered around 1950 in the Glisente area.
1st millennium BC
The Golasecca culture was a particular protohistoric culture developed in the area between the Alps and the Po River between the 9th century BC and the 5th century BC, during the early Iron Age. During that period, the Castelletto area was characterized by a series of pebble deposits and waterfalls, protected by an amphitheater of morainic hills. The first settlements were located throughout the territory with stops for navigation and controls at the nodal points of product exchange. The inhabitants spoke Celtic and practiced a cremation ritual for the deceased.
Nature
Castelletto sopra Ticino is surrounded by nature. The town is located within the ZPS Oasis of Lake Varese, a wetland area characterized by a unique flora and fauna. Here you can admire numerous species of birds, such as the kingfisher, the common moorhen, and the marsh harrier, but also foxes and nutrias that inhabit the area.
Monuments and places of interest
Castelletto sopra Ticino is rich in monuments and places of interest. Among these, we can mention the church of Santa Maria Assunta, the Borromeo castle, and the Bossi villa. The church of Santa Maria Assunta, dating back to the 12th century, is a typical example of Lombard Romanesque architecture. The Borromeo castle, on the other hand, was a military fortress for the defense of the territory, now restored and used as a museum. Finally, the Bossi villa, built in the 18th century, is now a splendid private residence.
Events and festivals
Castelletto sopra Ticino is also famous for its numerous events and festivals. One of the most important is undoubtedly the Night of Lanterns, which takes place every year at the end of August. During this event, the streets of the historic center are illuminated by thousands of colorful lanterns, creating a magical and suggestive atmosphere. But the Antiques Market that takes place every second Sunday of the month, and the lively and colorful Castelletto Carnival are not to be missed either.
Have you seen what there is to discover in Castelletto sopra Ticino? You just have to plan your visit and dive into the history and nature of this wonderful Piedmontese town!
