Farneta

Discovering Farneta: a journey in the Modenese Apennines

Hello everyone! Today I'll be talking about a small hamlet located in the Modenese Apennines: Farneta, also known as Farneeda in the Frignano dialect.

Physical geography

Farneta is located between Gusciola and Romanoro, at the foot of Mount Modino di Frassinoro, in a suggestive area immersed in nature. According to local culture, the village is divided into four sub-fractions: I Boschi, Il Monte, Il Castello and La Chiesa.

Farneta: discovering the Modenese Apennines

History

From the origins to the 19th century

Farneta has ancient origins and in the past was part of the Court of Vitriola, one of the courts founded by Beatrice di Canossa in 1071. Later, Farneta became part of the Comunanza dell'Abbadia, when the Municipality of Modena requested the renewal of oaths from the members of the Abbey.

Subsequently, the village was sold to the Montecuccoli di Polignago family and later divided between Albercuccio and Nicolò. In 1637, Farneta did not come under direct Este dominion and was granted in fief to Count Abate Scalabrini and his brother Gio-Battista. In 1750, it was enfeoffed to Count Silvestro Ponticelli, in 1764 to Carlo Cassoli and in 1870 to Count Lorenzotti.

In ancient times, Farneta was known for the artisanal production of magnani or ramieri, who were engaged in the processing of iron or copper.

From the 20th century to today

During the 20th century, Farneta suffered a strong emigration linked to the decline of work in the countryside and urbanization. Many inhabitants of the village chose to move to northern Italian cities and nearby provincial capitals in search of work and specialization. This caused the abandonment of some surrounding settlements, such as Perbone.

Nevertheless, Farneta has great historical and cultural value. During World War II, the village was an important place for supplies to partisan formations and the civilian population, thanks to airdrops carried out by the Allies.

Today, Farneta has a population of about 214 inhabitants but is a place rich in charm and traditions.

The beauty of Farneta

If you are passionate about history and local culture, Farneta is definitely a place to visit. Here you can admire ancient buildings, including the village church dating back to the 17th century, the castle and the mountain. You can also appreciate the surrounding landscape, which offers breathtaking views of the Modenese Apennines.

Don't forget to taste the typical local cuisine, featuring dishes such as fried cake, crescenta, farro soup and homemade lasagna.

If you want to relax, you can take a walk along the Dolo stream or take a trip to the nearby towns of Gusciola and Romanoro.

In short, Farneta is a small jewel of the Modenese Apennines that deserves to be discovered and appreciated. If you are looking for an authentic place immersed in nature, this is the ideal place for you!

Martina Caruso
Updated Monday, Aug 8, 2022