Parzanica
Parzanica: an ancient village
If you are interested in discovering places with ancient history, Parzanica is the ideal destination for you. This village located in the province of Bergamo, at 750 meters above sea level, on the western shore of Lake Iseo, boasts a history that dates back to the 10th century.
The original toponym of this area was ''Gromol'', which referred to a hill or elevation. Later, the name was replaced with the current Parzanica, which derives from the Bergamo dialect ''Parsanéga''.
For much of its history, Parzanica remained isolated and did not have any noteworthy events. However, during the medieval period, the village was affected by small skirmishes between opposing factions. Despite this, the town always maintained a peaceful character and followed the political fortunes of the province of Bergamo.
Symbols of Parzanica
The coat of arms and the banner of Parzanica were granted by decree of the President of the Republic in 1997. The coat of arms is surmounted by the mural crown and surrounded by two branches, olive and oak, with their respective fruits. The heraldic colors are six: red, blue, black, gold, green and brown.
The shield is divided into two parts. In the first partition, there is a chestnut hedgehog with a fruit, a symbol of the tree that has thrived in Parzanica for millennia and is a source of sustenance and local wealth. In the second partition, we find the buttercup, a flower that lives in the most difficult terrain among rocks and represents the population of Parzanica who lived on such harsh soil for millennia.
The banner is a cloth divided into red and yellow.
Monuments and places of interest
One of the places of historical interest is the historic village of Parzanica, which has preserved its rural soul and typical glimpses of past centuries. Also noteworthy is the Church of San Colombano, built at the end of the 16th century, which houses valuable frescoes, liturgical vestments and furnishings.
For nature lovers, the panoramic variant that leads to Parzanica offers an experience of great beauty, with breathtaking views of Lake Iseo. In addition, the village is surrounded by chestnut woods, from which the famous Parzanica chestnuts are derived.
How to reach Parzanica
Until 1957, Parzanica could only be reached through bridle paths. Subsequently, the provincial road that connects the town to Vigolo was built, while in 1999 the new panoramic variant was opened, allowing direct access to Parzanica from Tavernola.
In summary, Parzanica is a place rich in history, immersed in nature and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, which deserves to be discovered and visited calmly to appreciate its unspoiled beauty and peaceful character.
