Ligonchio
Discovering Ligonchio, the village nestled between the valleys
Ligonchio is an Italian municipality with a population of 819, located in the province of Reggio Emilia in Emilia-Romagna. Until December 31, 2015, Ligonchio was an autonomous municipality; however, today it is part of the municipality of Ventasso. The village is located in the National Park of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, between the Ozola and Secchia valleys.
Territory
The village is located on a hill between the Ozola and Rossendola valleys. Ligonchio is divided into two main nuclei, namely Ligonchio di Sopra and La Valla. La Valla is the headquarters of the municipality and the parish.
Ligonchio is connected to the State Road 63 of the Cerreto Pass, the main road of the area. Provincial Road 18, which starts from the state road near Busana, connects Ligonchio to Reggio Emilia. Furthermore, this same road connects Ligonchio with Tuscany through the Pradarena Pass, the highest mountain pass in the Northern Apennines.
The municipality is comprised of the villages of Caprile, Cinquecerri, Giarola, Campo, Montecagno, Ospitaletto, Piolo, and Vaglie. The municipal territory borders Villa Minozzo to the east and Sillano Giuncugnano, in the province of Lucca, to the south. The neighboring municipalities are Collagna to the west and Busana to the north.
Climate
The climate in Ligonchio is cool and temperate. There are significant rainfall events during the year, even in the driest month. The average annual temperature is 9.9°C, with an average maximum of 16.5°C and an average minimum of 3.2°C.
The history of Ligonchio
The origin of the name Ligonchio is not precise: in ancient documents, it is called "Aligante," "Ligonchium," "Ligontum," and "Ligustrum." The latter seems to derive from the word "Ligurian," as in ancient times, groups of men who migrated from the regions of the Mediterranean to northern Italy were called Ligurians.
In 1076, Matilda of Canossa gave the court of Ligonchio to the Frassinoro Abbey to derive income to fortify Carpineti. This was done to defend against possible attacks by the Emperor of Germany, Henry IV of Franconia, against Pope Gregory VII.
Ligonchio reemerged in documents in 1158, as part of the fiefs of the Dalli di Sillano, along with Piolo. This family ruled the Apennines, with alternating fortunes, until the French Revolution.
In 1383, the Ligonchio and Piolo castles passed to the Vallisneri family.
What to see in Ligonchio
Ligonchio is a village in the Apennines rich in history and nature. One of the main attractions is the Bismantova Stone, a 1047-meter-high rock wall with a panoramic view of the plain.
The village is nestled between the Ozola and Rossendola valleys, two rivers that offer a suggestive view. Furthermore, the landscape is dotted with trails for trekking and hiking.
Ligonchio is also known for its production of cheeses, including the famous Parmigiano Reggiano. It is possible to visit one of the many farms in the village and taste the local products.
The culture and traditions of Ligonchio
Ligonchio is a village rich in culture and traditions. The local dialect, "Algûnc" or "Ligûnchi," is still used daily by the population.
Every year, on June 29, the village celebrates the feast of the patron saint, St. Peter. During the summer, numerous cultural and gastronomic events are organized.
Conclusions
Ligonchio is a charming village in the Apennines, with spectacular nature and a fascinating history. Whether you are looking for an escape from the city, or interested in local culture and gastronomy, Ligonchio will offer an unforgettable experience.
