Gerenzago
Gerenzago: the small municipality in the province of Pavia
Located in the Bassa Pavese, the municipality of Gerenzago is a small territorial reality in the province of Pavia, Lombardy. With a population of about 1415 inhabitants, the city is located on the plain to the left of the Olona river.
The history of Gerenzago
Gerenzago has ancient roots, dating back to the 12th century, when it was called ''Gerençagus'' or ''Zerenzagus''. In the diploma of 1164, the emperor Frederick Barbarossa assigned jurisdiction over Lomellina, Oltrepò Pavese and other places, including Gerenzago, to the city of Pavia. The city was part of the squad (podesteria) of the Vicariato di Belgioso from the 15th century and was feuded to a cadet branch of the Estensi, which flowed into the Barbiani di Belgioso princes through marriage in 1757.
Historical symbols of the town
Among the representative historical symbols of the town, we find the castle, the church dedicated to Santa Pudenziana and the municipal coat of arms. The castle has very ancient origins and in the past was used as a military fortress, while today it is used as an agricultural structure. The Church of Santa Pudenziana dates back to the year 1000 and, in addition to the church itself, is part of a parish complex that includes the parsonage, a hall, an oratory, and two playgrounds. The coat of arms of the town consists of a castle and a parti-colored banner of red and white.
Society in Gerenzago
Despite its small size, the town offers several services to the community, such as an elementary school and a nursery. One of the reference points of the town is the sports center, equipped with several sports facilities, including a soccer field that hosts the town's team. The town currently has only one bar, but in the past there were several taverns. There are several small businesses that offer various services, including aesthetics, fitness, food, and services to citizens. Among the historical companies in the area, there are two agricultural companies, a ceramics shop, a carpentry shop, and two construction companies. There are also several volunteer associations.
Culture in Gerenzago
The inhabitants of Gerenzago are called "mules" for their stubbornness. Every year, the city celebrates the patron saint Santa Pudenziana on the third Sunday in May with religious rites and a village fair in the streets. On January 15th, San Mauro is celebrated and during the mass dedicated to the saint, blessed sandwiches are offered. In the square, tripe is served in honor of the patron saint.
Gerenzago is a small reality but rich in history and traditions, with a lively and active community that seeks to remain firm in the faith and roots that bind it to its land.
