Orsenigo

Orsenigo: A journey through its history and beauty

Orsenigo is a small and charming town in the province of Como, Lombardy, with a population of about 2670 inhabitants. This place has a long history dating back to the Celtic era, as evidenced by archaeological finds from 1878 on the Soldo hill, a burial site dating back to the 4th-3rd century BC.

Between the Middle Ages and battles

During the Middle Ages, the castle of Orsenigo played an important role in the disputes between the Milanese and Frederick Barbarossa, the emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. The castle, despite the first dismantling by the Della Torre in 1276, continued to have a military garrison at least until the early 17th century.

Two years later, the Index of the parishes and communities of the State of Milan revealed how the territory was composed of two communities: Orsenigo with Parzano and Orsenigo another portion. During the Kingdom of Italy (1805-1814), the administrative reorganization reforms decreed by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1807 led to the aggregation of the municipality of Orsenigo with Parzano in that of Alzate Brianza, which was however abolished upon the return of Lombardy into Austrian hands. Following the unification of Italy, Orsenigo followed national events.

Orsenigo: history and beauty among churches and parks.

The symbols of Orsenigo

The coat of arms and the standard of Orsenigo were granted by the decree of the President of the Republic of 19 November 1999. The mitre is a symbol of the episcopal dignity of the patron saints of the village, St. Martin for Orsenigo and St. Blaise for the fraction of Parzano. The crossed swords recall the events related to the battle of 1160 fought between Tassera and Orsenigo. The standard is a split flag of yellow and white.

The beauty of Orsenigo

Religious architecture

The parish church of San Martino has great architectural and historical importance. Dedicated only to St. Martin of Tours, over the centuries it has had other dedications such as that to St. Agnes. The church has undergone significant restorations and renovations over the centuries, but the ruins of the castle, located at the highest point of the town, are still visible.

Other places of interest

In addition to the church, Orsenigo can boast the presence of the public park "Roberto Bolle", dedicated to the famous Italian dancer and choreographer. It is a very large green area, equipped with pedestrian paths and playgrounds, ideal for spending days outdoors.

In conclusion, anyone who wishes to visit a place with ancient history and disarmingly beauty, Orsenigo is certainly an excellent destination. With its millenary church and the park dedicated to Roberto Bolle, it offers a suggestive combination of past and present, between religion and art.

Martina Caruso
Updated Saturday, Aug 6, 2022