Ro
Discovering Ro, a former municipality in the province of Ferrara
If you are looking for a fascinating place rich in history, don't miss Ro, a village in the municipality of Riva del Po, in the province of Ferrara, Emilia-Romagna. Until December 31st, 2018, Ro was an independent municipality, but today it is part of the new municipality of Riva del Po, merged with Berra. Walking through Ro, you can admire the ancient religious and civil buildings, breathe the air of the Ferrara countryside, and immerse yourself in the history of the noble Giocoli family, who dominated these lands in the 14th century. Come and discover Ro with us!
Physical geography
Ro is located near the right bank of the Po river, in a flat area suitable for agriculture. However, the beauty of the landscape is often undermined by the river floods, which over the centuries have caused significant damage to the population and surrounding lands.
History
The history of Ro is long and fascinating: the first historical records date back to the mid-14th century, when the Giocoli family, a noble family from Ferrara, became Lords of Ro after receiving feuds in the northwestern area of Ferrara. Subsequently, Ro played an important role as a border area to the north after the devolution of Ferrara to the Holy See. During World War II, the municipality was chosen as a place to store the archives of the Pontifical Legation, which included two and a half centuries of Ferrara history after the Este. However, the building that housed them was bombed in 1945, causing the destruction of the historical heritage kept inside.
Monuments and places of interest
If you want to discover Ro's history and art, you cannot miss its monuments and places of interest. Among the churches, there is the Church of San Giacomo Apostolo, the Church of San Martino Vescovo, dating back to the 18th century, and the Church of the Assumption of Mary, dating back to the 12th century. But Ro is not limited to its churches: you can visit the historic Rina and Nino Sgarbi Pharmacy, the reconstruction of the Po Mill, and many other places rich in history.
Society and culture
Ro has an active and diverse associative and cultural fabric. Among the major events, the Sagra della Miseria recalls the poor and genuine dishes of the local tradition, as well as those described by the writer Riccardo Bacchelli in his famous novel "Il Mulino del Po." In addition, the presence of the Elisabetta Sgarbi Foundation promotes culture and art in the area, through exhibitions, events, and various initiatives.
Economy and administration
Ro's economy is closely linked to the Po river, which, while causing destruction and floods on one hand, has favored the development of agriculture and cereal milling, particularly wheat. Today, Ro is part of the municipality of Riva del Po and its administration.
Conclusions
Ro is a village with an ancient and suggestive charm, where history meets nature. Through its monuments, culture, and territory, you can learn about the art, religiosity, and tradition of northern Italy, immersing yourself even in a distant past. Come and discover Ro, and let yourself be seduced by its beauty and flavors!
