Carbonesca
Carbonesca: An Umbrian Jewel
Carbonesca is a charming village located on the hills to the east of Gubbio, just a short distance from the Chiascio river. The village has a population of 391 and is divided into three parts or districts: "Interrato", "Casa Giorgi", and "Carbonesca". In this text, I will guide you through the discovery of its history, monuments and places of interest, economic activities, and events that animate the life of the village.
History
In the area of Monte Carlo, there was a watchtower for the control of the upper Chiascio valley. Here, in 1206, Francis of Assisi was attacked by bandits and beaten shortly after his conversion. In Magrano, there was the Melchiorre Montaiti Castle, which rebelled against Count Antonio II da Montefeltro in 1329, suffering heavy damage. After serving as a hunting lodge also used by Federico da Montefeltro, it passed to the Carpegna in 1600 and to Princess Giulia Bonaparte, related to the famous Napoleon, in 1830.
Economy and Events
Carbonesca is known for the many agritourism complexes in the area. However, the village is also famous for the traditions that animate village life. One of the most participated events is that of the "Maggio" and the "maggiaioli": on the night between April 30 and May 1, a group of people gather to sing the stornelli, sung stanzas recited in front of the houses of the village. Only when the house lights are turned on, do the stornellatori stop, thank the hosts, and refresh themselves with the offerings. Every year on March 19, in honor of Saint Joseph, a large bonfire is lit in the center of the village, known as "focarone". In addition, at the end of July, the "Sagra delle polenta e salsicce" (Festival of polenta and sausages) is held.
Monuments and Places of Interest
There is a wide selection of monuments and places of interest in Carbonesca. The parish church, dating back to the seventeenth century, contains a wooden crucifix. The town hall, built-in 1894 with field stone, is a beautiful example of architecture from that period. In the center of the village, there is a historic fountain and a monument to the fallen. The Church of S. Cristoforo, consecrated by the Bishop of Gubbio Bentivoglio in 1194, houses medieval frescoes and a painted wooden altar. The ruins of the Castle of Caresto, dating back to 1362, are still visible, along with the Church of Ss. Filippo and Giacomo. Noteworthy is the presence of a taxus growing in the castle courtyard. The Magrano Castle, built-in the thirteenth century, was damaged during the rebellion of Melchiorre Montaiti. Finally, the Colle Farm, adorned with tall pine trees, is an attraction for nature lovers.
Sports
Carbonesca offers many opportunities for outdoor sports. The Carbonesca Sports Association is the reference point for those who want to play soccer, while the natural grass sports field is the ideal place to observe how the matches are celebrated.
Notes
This text aims to provide an overview of the main characteristics of Carbonesca, a village rich in history and natural beauty. If you decide to visit the village, you will discover a corner of Umbria still far from the most beaten tourist circuits. You will not fail to be impressed by the beauty of the monuments and landscapes that this area has to offer.
