Gasponi
Gasponi: a small fraction with a great historical heritage
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about Gasponi, a fraction of Drapia, a beautiful city in the district of Vibo Valentia. Gasponi is a small town with only 251 inhabitants, but it has a long history dating back to the late antique period.
Origins of the name
The name Gasponi derives from the eponymous "Chàspa" family, pronounced "Chàspones" in Byzantine Greek. This demonstrates the Byzantine origin of the town.
History
Late antique period
The first nucleus of Gasponi developed during the late antique period as part of the "Massa Trapeiana," one of the three farms that made up the heritage of the Saints Peter and Paul. This territory was mainly inhabited by farmers, servants, and settlers, and was managed by a leveler.
Byzantine period
In the Byzantine period, the Massa Trapeiana evolved into a city and diocese of Tropea, whose fate was linked to Gasponi and the surrounding territory. Tropea was a fortified outpost where the bishop, the civil administrator, and the surrounding population were located when there was danger.
Medieval period
During the Middle Ages, to defend its territory from Saracen invasions, Gasponi had three towers positioned in strategic points. Today, you can still see the remains of two of these towers.
Modern period
In the modern period, Gasponi became an important rural center that revolved around Tropea. In the town and surrounding area, you can admire some architectural evidence from the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries.
Contemporary period
Gasponi participated in the Risorgimento movements, and during World War II its soldiers fought for both the Bourbon army and the Resistance. After the war, the town participated in the peasant struggles for the application of the Gullo Decrees and for the occupation of the Monte Poro latifundia.
Destruction and reconstruction
Unfortunately, in 1905, Gasponi was destroyed by an earthquake. After the reconstruction of the town, you can still admire the beauty of the historic center and its millennia-old history.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Gasponi is a small town with a long history dating back to the late antique period. From medieval towers to the role it played during World War II, Gasponi is a historical treasure of which its inhabitants can be very proud. If you happen to be in Drapia, do not miss the opportunity to visit this exceptional jewel of the Italian landscape!
