Collecchio
Welcome to Collecchio
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about a beautiful Italian commune located in Emilia-Romagna: Collecchio. This town is inhabited by approximately 15,000 people and is located on the right bank of the Taro River, a few kilometers southwest of Parma.
The location of Collecchio
Collecchio is easily accessible from the city of Parma via the SS62 and the Pontremolese Railway. The territory is mostly flat, with the exception of the hilly area where the Pieve di San Prospero is located. Not to be missed is the Regional Natural Park of the Boschi di Carrega, a real green oasis that also extends to the nearby Sala Baganza.
The history of Collecchio
The history of Collecchio dates back to the Paleolithic era, but the first settlements date back to the Bronze Age. During the Roman era, the area developed the settlement of Sustrina or Sustizia, which was then destroyed in 27 BC by the orders of Augustus. In the Middle Ages, thanks to its proximity to the Via Francigena, numerous churches and xenodochi were developed for pilgrims heading towards Rome. The inhabited nucleus of Colliculo was first attested in a document from 929, but the construction of the Castle of Collecchio dates back to the 11th century. In 1195, Henry VI of Swabia confirmed the possession of the fiefdom to Bishop Obizzo Fieschi, but the Municipality of Parma claimed rights over the place. Only in 1221, thanks to the intervention of Pope Honorius III, an agreement was reached that assigned power over Collecchio to the bishop.
What to see in Collecchio
Collecchio is a town rich in history, interesting places and natural beauties. Among the most important churches are the Church of San Martino in Madregolo and the Pieve di San Prospero, which dominates the historic center from above. The Castle of Collecchio stood on the hill where the villa Paveri Fontana now stands and its construction was made with a mix of architectural styles. Finally, the Regional Natural Park of the Boschi di Carrega is the ideal place for walks and picnics immersed in nature.
Local gastronomy
One cannot speak of Collecchio without mentioning its exquisite gastronomy. Among the most famous culinary specialties are the «potato tortello» and the «coppa di collo di maiale», while among the most tasty dishes we find «strozzapreti with mushroom sauce» and «fish soup». Let us not forget the local production of Parmigiano Reggiano and prosciutto di Parma, which make many Italian cuisine enthusiasts happy.
Annual events
Collecchio is a town that offers many opportunities for leisure and events throughout the year. One of the most anticipated events is the Thanksgiving Festival, which takes place in autumn and celebrates the end of the harvest. During this festival, you can taste local specialties and participate in shows and concerts. The San Prospero Fair, on the other hand, takes place in summer and offers concerts, falconry shows, children's games and a wide program of culinary events.
Conclusions
Collecchio is a wonderful town just a few kilometers from Parma, which offers multiple tourist activities and leisure in a natural and cultural environment of great value. Its millennial history, architectural and natural beauties and local gastronomy make Collecchio an ideal destination for vacations or a relaxing weekend. As they say in the Parmigiano dialect: "se la j panza l'è gnusa e 'l cor l'è à mènt" ("if the stomach is full and the heart is content"). And in Collecchio, the stomach and the heart can only be full and happy!
