Monte San Pietro
Monte San Pietro: a municipality immersed in nature
Monte San Pietro is a scattered municipality located in the metropolitan city of Bologna, in the region of Emilia-Romagna. With its 10,693 inhabitants, it is a peaceful place surrounded by nature. The municipal seat is located in the hamlet of Calderino, which is also the main town. Since 2014, it has been part of the Union of the Municipalities of the Reno, Lavino and Samoggia Valleys.
Territory
The municipal territory of Monte San Pietro is crossed from south to north by the Lavino stream. In its valley lie the main inhabited centers such as the main town of Calderino, Monte San Giovanni, Oca, Badia, and Montepastore. The stream marks the border with the municipalities of Sasso Marconi and Zola Predosa. On the right bank of the river, some centers are now part of Monte San Pietro, such as Fontanelle in the municipality of Zola Predosa, belonging to the inhabited center of Calderino. The Landa Valley, an affluent of the Lavino, is another valley of the municipal territory that extends to Calderino, where it flows into the Lavino. Here lie Loghetto and Monte San Pietro. Moreover, going up from the Landa valley, one reaches San Lorenzo in Collina and San Martino in Casola. The municipality also extends partly to the Samoggia Valley between Stiore and Zappolino, in the municipality of Valsamoggia. Between the two valleys, there are the localities of Montemaggiore and Mongiorgio, located on the watershed.
Climate
Monte San Pietro has an overall continental climate, with temperatures varying according to altitude. The average temperature of the coldest month is 2.2°C and that of the warmest month is 23.8°C. The annual average temperature is around 13.4°C. Snowfall is frequent, on average from late November to late March. The average of snowfall is obtained by adding the amount (in cm) of snow that has fallen in a winter. Rain has two peaks: one in autumn and another in spring. The average annual precipitation is 860mm. Foggy days are frequent in autumn, especially in November. The dominant winds are from the ENE, with an average speed of 9 km/h. The average relative humidity is 70/72%. The average sunshine hours per day is 5.
Origins of the name
The name Monte San Pietro consists of "Monte," referring to the hill on which the historic town of the same name stands, and "San Pietro," symbolizing Saint Peter, who was venerated in the historic parish.
History
Monte San Pietro is a municipality with a very ancient history. The municipal coat of arms consists of a bow weapon with a lily on each side of the shield. The town flag is represented by a red flag with the municipal coat of arms in the center. In 1994, Monte San Pietro was awarded the Bronze Medal for Military Valor for the sacrifices made by its population and for its activity in the partisan resistance during World War II.
Attention to Nature
Monte San Pietro is immersed in nature and is a place that has always had an eye for the environment. The municipality is attentive to waste management and has promoted separate waste collection since the early 2000s. In 2016, the Lavino Park, a protected natural area that extends for about 22 hectares along the course of the Lavino river, was inaugurated. The park hosts numerous plant species such as willows, alders, poplars, hazelnuts, and plum trees. In addition, it is possible to encounter animals such as foxes, badgers, weasels, owls, hawks, and woodpeckers.
Places of Interest
Monte San Pietro offers many interesting places for tourists who want to discover the beauty of this municipality. At Monte San Giovanni, there is the archaeological museum of Monte San Giovanni in Persiceto, which collects objects from various areas of Emilia-Romagna. The museum is located in a historic building from the 1500s and also offers the opportunity to visit the permanent collection of contemporary art. At Calderino, there is the Castle of Calderino, an imposing fortress dating back to the 12th century that dominates the homonymous hamlet. The castle offers a panoramic view of the Lavino Valley. In Badia, there is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, a building of great architectural beauty dating back to the 9th century.
Conclusion
Monte San Pietro is a municipality immersed in nature and rich in history and culture. With its valleys, streams, and hills, it offers numerous opportunities for excursions and outdoor activities. Moreover, the municipality is attentive to environmental conservation and promotes projects and activities that enhance the surrounding nature. Monte San Pietro is a place to discover and appreciate for its beauty and authenticity.
