Cavallasca
Welcome to Cavallasca
Cavallasca is a small hamlet located between Como and Varese, immersed in a hilly system of sedimentary rocks, which is a part of San Fermo della Battaglia. The village is spread over an area ranging from 400 to 614 meters above sea level, reaching the summit of Mount Sasso.
Physical geography of the territory
The hilly system of Cavallasca is composed of sedimentary rocks of different nature and sizes, especially sandstone. The main feature of the terrain is the infiltration of aquifers, mostly of spring origin. There are two important springs in the territory of Cavallasca: the first situated at Olcellera, rich in limestone containing iron and magnesium, and the second in Colombirolino, which gives rise to the Seveso river. From Cavallasca, the river continues southeast, heading towards the new Sant'Anna Hospital and then towards Brianza.
The origin of the name
The toponym "Cavallasca" has two possible origins. The first hypothesis dates back to the Celtic languages, combining the words ''kava'' and ''asgall'' to mean "dig refuge". The second hypothesis supports a Latin origin, deriving from the term ''caballus'' and the suffix "asca" or "asco" typical of places located in high places.
The history of Cavallasca
Cavallasca dates back to the Roman era when Roman patricians built villas in the area. The first certified evidence of the existence of Cavallasca dates back to the end of the 11th century, with the elevation to the Diocese of Como of the former archpriest Guido Grimoldi. In the period between 1295 and 1510, the village followed the fortunes of Como within the Duchy of Milan. In 1510, Cavallasca was hit by the looting of Swiss troops that had invaded the region. With Spanish domination over Lombardy from 1526, the territory of Cavallasca enjoyed two centuries of peace and stability until the mid-16th century, when the noble Imbonati family settled in the village.
Conclusion
Cavallasca is a small hamlet in the municipality of San Fermo della Battaglia in Lombardy, which offers visitors a beautiful hilly landscape and a history rich in evidence from past eras. The origin of the name and the history of the village are fascinating and blend with the beauty of the surrounding territory. A visit to Cavallasca is definitely worth it for anyone wishing to discover places where tradition, nature, and history come together in a unique charm.
