Gruaro
Gruaro: a town rich in history and natural beauty
Gruaro is a small town located in the countryside of Eastern Veneto, a few kilometers from the border with Friuli. With its 2730 inhabitants, it offers several attractions for those who wish to spend a pleasant day outdoors or visit historical and artistic monuments.
The territory of Gruaro is characterized by the presence of canals and bodies of water such as the Lemene and the Versiola, which make it an ideal place to practice outdoor activities such as birdwatching or cycling. In addition, the municipality boasts many attractions both in the countryside, such as the Stalis mills, and in the town, such as the Church of San Tommaso apostolo in the hamlet of Bagnara, famous for its centennial organ and frescoes.
The origins of the name
The origin of the name Gruaro has long been debated. One possibility is that it derives from the Latin word "grus", meaning "crane", with a collective suffix indicating the ancient nature of the marshy and swampy area. However, a source suggests that the name may derive from "grava", which means "gravel" or "alluvial soil", a circumstance also supported by the presence of an ancient source called "Growario". In any case, Gruaro is linked to the presence of water and the characteristics of the soil.
A millennial history
The territory of Gruaro has a long history dating back to the Roman age, as demonstrated by recent archaeological discoveries. However, the first written documents attesting to the existence of a communal life date back to 838, when Emperor Lothair granted some territories to the Abbey of Santa Maria in Silvis. These monks are responsible for the formation of the urban center, which was fortified with the construction of a castle. In 1140, the bishop Gervino drafted the grant considered the birth certificate of the city.
During the 15th century, Friuli was subjugated by the Serenissima, and the territory of Gruaro was incorporated into the Republic of San Marco. With the Napoleonic Kingdom of Italy, Gruaro became a municipality of the Department of Passariano, before being transferred to the province of Venice with the Kingdom of Lombardy-Veneto. Over the centuries, numerous churches were built, including that of San Giusto Martire with two large frescoes from the 16th century and the Church of San Tommaso Apostolo with a precious lunette and frescoes.
The Gruaro Massacre
In March 1933, Gruaro was the scene of a tragedy caused by the experimentation of a vaccine against diphtheria. That experiment, known as the Gruaro Massacre, caused the death of several children and sparked strong indignation among the population.
Conclusions
Gruaro is a fascinating municipality that offers many opportunities for leisure and culture. Those who decide to visit this place, rich in history and natural beauty, can admire ancient churches, restored mills, the crystal-clear waters of the Lemene and Versiola, and enjoy the tranquility of the Venetian countryside.
