Gornate Olona
Discovering Gornate Olona: a small town rich in history and natural beauty
Gornate Olona is a municipality located in the province of Varese in Lombardy, with a population of about 2,167 inhabitants. The place was called Gornate Inferiore until 1928 when it changed its name following the annexation of the abolished municipality of Torba.
Monuments and places of interest
History and art lovers will appreciate a visit to the Torba Monastery, whose building dates back to the 8th-13th century. After being owned by Benedictine nuns until 1453, the monastery is now part of the FAI - Italian Environment Fund and was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2011. The Longobards in Italy: Places of Power project contributed to the enhancement of the site, together with other Italian sites that preserve the traces of the Longobard people, such as the nearby castrum of Castelseprio.
The Church of Santa Maria di San Salvatore is another attraction in the area that is worth a visit. Its architectural style dates back to the 17th century. Located outside the urban area, the church can be reached via a dirt path.
For those looking for a church in the center of Gornate Olona, a visit to the parish church of San Vittore Martire, which has existed since the 14th century, is recommended. In the Torba hamlet, there is also the Church of Maria Santissima Bambina, dating back to the 20th century.
Society
Demographic evolution
The population of Gornate Olona has undergone a series of changes over the centuries. In 1751, the number of inhabitants was 390, while in 1805 it had risen to 474. In 1809, the municipality was annexed to Carnago, and in 1853 the population further increased, reaching 574 inhabitants.
Infrastructure and transport
The Torba-Gornate Olona station, located along the Valmorea railway, was activated in 1915. It was deprived of passenger traffic in 1952 and was definitively abolished in 1977, along with the entire railway line. Nevertheless, the municipality of Gornate Olona is well connected to the rest of the region through the road network and the A8 highway.
Administration
Until 1927, Gornate Olona was part of the province of Como. Today, the municipality is part of the province of Varese.
Related voices
Gornate Olona is located near Seprio, one of the most important tourist attractions in the province of Varese.
Other projects
For more information on Gornate Olona and its monuments, you can visit the municipality and FAI websites.
