Cassignano

Cassignano: a historic hamlet in Umbria, Italy

Cassignano is a hamlet in the municipality of Foligno, located in the province of Perugia, in Umbria. Known for its ancient history linked to the transhumance of shepherds, the area has origins dating back to the Iron Age. In this brief essay, we will trace a brief history of this ancient village, describe its monuments and places of interest.

History

The village of Cassignano has a long history, dating back to prehistory. On the hills of Plestia, one of the seven parishes that had jurisdiction over the area was the parish of Cassignano. But the village has seen numerous periods of decline and depopulation, also due to earthquakes that have caused damage to this area. In 1943, during World War II, Cassignano became a meeting point for refugees, fugitives, and especially for the Italian Resistance, which found refuge in the canonical house of the church.

Cassignano: history and treasures of an Umbrian hamlet.

Monuments and places of interest

Once in Cassignano, visitors will be enchanted by the monuments and places of interest present in this location. One of these places is the church of San Fortunato, built presumably between the 16th and 17th centuries. This church is a wonder for the eyes and contains an incredible historical and artistic heritage. The church was erected as a parish and represents a point of reference for the entire local religious community.

According to tradition, in an area called "Santa Maria," not far from the center of Cassignano, was located the lost Pieve of Cassignano. This important medieval religious building seems to have fallen into ruins towards the end of the Middle Ages, and religious functions were moved to a chapel near the castle. The church was dedicated to San Fortunato of Todi, but was locally known as the "church of the peasants".

Conclusions

Cassignano represents a hamlet with a very ancient history, located in a strategic position in Umbria, Italy. Visiting it not only allows you to learn about the history of the area but also to admire wonderful monuments and places of interest, such as the church of San Fortunato and the chapel near the castle. Thanks to its location, restaurants, and hotels nearby, Cassignano is a perfect tourist destination for those who want to spend an unforgettable day in an enchanting place.

Federico Conte
Updated Tuesday, Jan 17, 2023