Orsago
The Municipality of Orsago: a brief introduction
Hello friends, today I will talk about Orsago, a municipality in the Veneto region with 3,812 inhabitants in the province of Treviso. Together, we will explore the history of this place, its monuments and places of interest, as well as its demographic evolution and the presence of foreign minorities.
History
Prehistory and the Bronze Age
Orsago was born in a wild area characterized by abundant marshes, traces of which are still visible in the name "Palù". The acidic environment of the peatlands allowed the conservation of seeds of ancient origin, allowing the reconstruction of the composition of flora. This environment represented the ideal habitat for many animal species and, consequently, also for humans.
Human presence is evidenced by numerous artifacts, including flint tools dating back to the Neolithic period and dated around 3,000 BC. It is believed that these populations remained in the area until the Bronze Age (2,000 BC). After the reclamation works of the 1950s, a pile-dwelling settlement was identified and two other important sites were found in the "Casire Tre Fosse" and "Prà della Stalla" areas.
The Paleoveneti
The Paleoveneti were very present in the area of Orsago which may have hosted a sanctuary. Springs were thrown, as "ex-votos", coins and religious objects. Ruins of an ancient sanctuary have been found in Prà della Stalla.
The Roman Age
In the second century BC, the area was subjugated to the Roman Republic. The area became part of the "municipium" of Oderzo around 49 BC and remained under Roman domination.
The Middle Ages
Orsago belonged to the Da Camino family and then passed to the Patriarchate of Aquileia. In 1389, it was absorbed by the Serenissima.
From the 19th century to today
In the 19th century, Orsago underwent numerous changes also due to reclamation works. In the 20th century, it also suffered the effects of the first and second world wars.
Monuments and places of interest
Churches
The church of San Benedetto Abate, built in 1676 and consecrated in 1695, is one of the main places of worship and is part of the diocese of Vittorio Veneto.
Venetian villas
Orsago is home to numerous Venetian villas including Casa Basso, Casa Carli Grumatti, Villa Priuli De Chastonay Da Re, Villa Vicenzotti Cefis Fiorin and Villa Sbrojavacca Maffei Zanin. Their architecture, decorations and gardens are an example of the historical and cultural heritage of Orsago.
Society
Demographic evolution
Orsago has seen a steady increase in population, from 2,729 inhabitants in 1951 to 3,812 inhabitants in 2019.
Ethnicities and foreign minorities
As of December 31, 2017, foreigners residing in the city were 356, or 9%. The main communities are those of Romanian, Albanian, and Macedonian origin.
In conclusion, Orsago is a place rich in history and culture, of which architecture, historical artifacts, and monuments are a testament. Its friendly and open population, combined with the beauty of the area, make it an ideal destination for a visit. I recommend not missing the opportunity to visit this splendid city in the Veneto region.
