Lurago Marinone
Lurago Marinone: a small town in the heart of Lombardy
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about Lurago Marinone, an Italian municipality located southwest of Como, in Lombardy. With just over 2500 inhabitants, Lurago Marinone is one of the smallest cities in the province of Como, but don't be fooled by its size: it is rich in history and natural beauty.
Physical Geography
Lurago Marinone is located on the edge of the Pineta di Appiano Gentile and Tradate Park, about 18 kilometers southwest of Como and 30 kilometers northwest of Milan. Thanks to its geographical location, Lurago Marinone is the ideal place for anyone looking for the tranquility of the Lombardy countryside, but at the same time wants to be close to the main cities of the region.
History
Lurago Marinone's history dates back to at least the 7th century, when the church of San Giorgio was built. Over the centuries, the village played an important role in the Contado del Seprio and in the Duchy of Milan. In the 15th century, the settlement expanded into the flatland and the village became the seat of a castle, which was destroyed by the Milanese in 1284. The complex became the residence of the Carcano family at least from 1574.
In 1574, Cardinal Carlo Borromeo ordered the construction of a new church, which arose in place of the oratory of the Madonna di San Rocco. The new parish church of San Giorgio was completed only at the end of the 17th century.
Origin of the name
The name of the village probably derives from the Lura (river), which once crossed its territory, and from the ancient Marinoni family, still present in large numbers in the municipality. Tradition has it that even Natale di Milano, Archbishop of Milan in the 8th century, is originally from the village.
Antiquity and Middle Ages
Some excavations carried out outside the ancient church of San Giorgio brought to light masonry tombs and some Roman-era objects dating back to the 1st century BC. The original nucleus of Lurago was located precisely on the hills around the ancient parish church; only in the 15th century did the settlement expand into the flatland.
Modern and Contemporary Age
In the 18th century, the municipality of Lurago Marinone was enfeoffed by Alfonso Del Rio Noriega. Over the centuries, Lurago Marinone has experienced moments of growth and decline, but has always maintained its authentic and intimate charm.
If you pass through Lurago Marinone, I recommend visiting the church of San Giorgio, which houses some works of art of great value, such as the Baptism of Christ by Gian Paolo Lomazzo. A walk in the Pineta di Appiano Gentile and Tradate Park, an oasis of peace and greenery, will make you forget the chaos of the city.
Finally, you cannot leave without tasting the delicious typical products of the area, such as goat cheese and honey from the local bees. Lurago Marinone is a small city that, once discovered, you will not easily forget.
