Olevano di Lomellina
Olevano di Lomellina: A Rural Village in Lombardy
Olevano di Lomellina is a charming rural village located in Lombardy, in the province of Pavia. With a population of only 716 inhabitants, this municipality extends over a flat area in the center of Lomellina, with the village developing in a scattered pattern along the provincial roads SP 57 and 14. Olevano di Lomellina still preserves the typical appearance of a rural village and represents an important historical testimony of the region.
History: The Origins of Olevano di Lomellina
The origins of Olevano di Lomellina seem to date back at least to the 1st millennium BC. Some historians derive the name Olevano from "Aula Laevorum," meaning the Court of Levi (people), ancient Ligurian populations who inhabited these areas, while others trace it back to the Celtic expression "Ol Ebam," which indicated the plain in the valley. In the 9th century, the area was crossed by an ancient Roman road that led from Passo del Sempione to Genoa.
During the 11th century, Olevano di Lomellina became part of the County of Lomello, which extended over the entire territory of present-day Lomellina. In 1164, the emperor Frederick Barbarossa granted the fief to Uberto de' Olevano, the founder of the noble family "Olevano," which retained numerous assets and properties in the territory.
With the advent of the Sforza lordship in 1467, the fief of Olevano di Lomellina was granted to the "Attendolo Bolognini." In 1688, it was purchased by the Taverna family, which retained the lordship until the end of feudalism in 1797.
Life in the Rural Village
Olevano di Lomellina has always been a community with a strong agricultural vocation, with most of its inhabitants engaged in fieldwork and the production of food products such as rice, corn, apples, and wine. Today the village is known for the production of cheeses such as Strachitunt and Grana Padano, which can be purchased directly from local producers.
The village of Olevano di Lomellina still preserves many elements of Lombard rural architecture, with brick and stone houses, tile roofs, and internal courtyards. One of the most beautiful places in the village is the Church of San Sebastiano, dating back to the 17th century, which still retains many original frescoes.
Local Events and Traditions
Olevano di Lomellina is a village rich in local events and traditions, reflecting the pride and passion of the community for its history and culture. Among the most famous events is the festival of Strachitunt, held every year in August, which celebrates the production of the typical cheese of the village.
In addition to the festival of Strachitunt, Olevano di Lomellina hosts numerous other events every year, such as country fairs, religious festivals, and cultural events, which bring the village to life with music, performances, and entertainment for both adults and children.
Tour of the Village of Olevano di Lomellina
For those who want to visit the village of Olevano di Lomellina, there are numerous attractions not to be missed. Among the main ones is the Church of San Sebastiano, with its original frescoes and the statue of the patron saint.
For a more complete experience, it is also recommended to visit the Museum of Peasant Civilization of Olevano di Lomellina, which houses a vast collection of objects and tools related to the agricultural tradition of the region.
Finally, a walk through the streets and alleys of the village cannot be overlooked, to savor the unique and authentic atmosphere of this charming rural village.
In summary, Olevano di Lomellina is a rural village in the province of Pavia that preserves the typical appearance of a rural village and represents a historical testimony of great value. With its agricultural vocation, production of typical cheeses, and local events and traditions, Olevano di Lomellina offers a unique and authentic experience for those who visit it.
