San Ruffino
A small fraction of Parma: San Ruffino
Hello friends! Today I'll talk to you about San Ruffino, a lovely fraction of the city of Parma. Located about 7.72 km south of the center, the locality belongs to the Vigatto district and is characterized by its flat location on the right bank of the Baganza stream, near the Cinghio stream. I will tell you about its history and the curiosities that make it interesting.
Physical geography
San Ruffino is located in a quiet and relaxing position, surrounded by the greenery of cultivated fields. The territory is flat and visible on the right bank of the Baganza stream, which flows near the Cinghio stream. The view is breathtaking thanks to the proximity of the Parma Apennines, and the surrounding landscape is characterized by the green of trees and the singing of birds.
History
Traces of human presence in the San Ruffino area date back to the Neolithic period, as evidenced by the discovery in the area of a series of artifacts, including ceramic fragments, weapons, and objects made of Flint, Quartz and Stone. The territory was also inhabited around the 6th century B.C., as evidenced by the discovery of Etruscan ceramic objects superimposed on one of the prehistoric sites in the area. The fraction was born around the Church of San Ruffino in the medieval period, which was built at the crossroads of two important roads leading to the Parma Apennines. As a result of Napoleon's decrees, San Ruffino became a fraction of the new municipality (or ''mairie'') of Vigatto in 1806, and in 1943 it was annexed to the municipality of Parma. In 1951 it was re-established, but definitively suppressed in 1962 becoming an autonomous district.
Monuments and places of interest
San Ruffino offers several attractions to visit. The Church of San Ruffino is the main religious building, mentioned for the first time in 1230 and rebuilt in Baroque architectural style around the mid-18th century. The interior was decorated in 1859 and was restored and adorned in 1928. Following the earthquake of 2008, the church was repaired and consolidated between 2013 and 2015. It is a suggestive place where you can breathe the history of the village.
Another place of interest is Villa Paveri Fontana, an imposing villa built in the 16th century and renovated in neoclassical architectural style in the 19th century. It is symmetrically elevated on two main levels above ground, with a main facade characterized by the 19th century portico and the large pediment that surmounts the central body of the structure. The lateral wings, separated by high pilasters, are crowned by balustrades on which tall statues rest. The large English park, rich in plants and statues, also houses the external chapel, which adds to the internal chapel of the villa. Access is impressive thanks to the half-circle gate, surmounted by statues and lanterns supported by nine pillars.
Conclusion
In summary, San Ruffino is a small fraction that offers interesting places to discover. If you are in the area, it is worth visiting and exploring the Church of San Ruffino and Villa Paveri Fontana. It will be an experience you won't easily forget. Thanks for reading and enjoy discovering San Ruffino!
