Robbiate
Welcome to Robbiate, a municipality surrounded by nature
Robbiate, which is pronounced "Rubiàa" in the Brianza dialect, is an Italian municipality located in the province of Lecco in Lombardy. With a population of approximately 6,361 inhabitants, the municipality's territory extends over an area of 4.67 km² in the northeastern portion of Brianza. Located on the border with the provinces of Bergamo and Monza-Brianza, Robbiate is only 15 kilometers away from the center of Lecco and 30 kilometers away from the center of Milan.
Physical geography
Geology
Robbiate's territory is characterized by a gently hilly geography, with moraine reliefs typical of the southern zone of the Lombard Prealps. The clay soil of the hill on which Robbiate sits allowed the characteristic moraines to be formed.
Orography
Robbiate is characterized by hills on which beautiful hikes can be taken on foot or by bicycle. Mount Robbio, at 195 meters, is the highest elevation among the three that inspire the municipality's coat of arms. Also, Moncucco and Ganzana are beautiful reliefs known for their natural beauty.
Hydrography
The municipality is affected by the presence of the Adda River to the east, which marks the boundary with the municipality of Calusco d'Adda in the province of Bergamo. The presence of the Adda River has created a deep gorge up to 100 meters, wide up to 150 meters, and 1700 meters long. The river flows southward, to the Robbiate Dam of the nearby Semenza hydroelectric power plant. Moreover, the municipal territory is also crossed by a canal, called the Annoni canal, originating from the nearby Lake of Sartirana and crossing the municipality from north to south.
Seismic classification
According to the seismic classification, the municipality is classified as a low seismicity zone, as per specific regional decree approved in July 2014.
Climatic classification
Robbiate belongs to zone E, degree days 2446, according to the climatic classification. The climate of the municipality is continental with rather cold winters and hot summers. Precipitation is concentrated in spring and autumn, with an average annual rainfall of approximately 850 mm. Relative humidity is high, and fog is very present during the coldest months.
Origin of the name
Although the origins of the municipality's name are not certain, there are several hypotheses. According to the German philologist Gerhard Rohlfs, Robbiate derives from the Latin gentilic "Rubius" with the addition of the suffix -"ate". According to the Italian philologist Dante Olivieri, on the other hand, the etymology of the name derives from the name of the hill on which the municipality sits, Mount Robbio, which would have the meaning of "red mountain" due to the red color of the clay soil of which it is composed.
The history of Robbiate
The origins of Robbiate date back to the pre-Roman period, and throughout its history, the city was governed by various noble families. The most important of these was the Cecconesi family, which ruled the municipality until the end of the 13th century. Over the centuries, Robbiate became part of the Duchy of Milan and suffered the consequences of the Italian wars.
Tourist attractions
Although it is a small municipality, Robbiate offers many tourist attractions for visitors of all ages. Among the main attractions are:
The Clock Museum
This museum houses a vast collection of pocket watches and wall clocks. In the museum, it is possible to see clocks from all over the world and from different eras.
The Parish Church of San Pietro
The Parish Church of San Pietro is an architectural beauty dating back to the 15th century. The church preserves several works of art inside.
The Montevecchia and Curone Valley Park
This natural park is a series of trails that wind through the hills and the Curone Valley. The park offers a series of recreational activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and more.
Food and drink
Robbiate's cuisine is typical of the Brianza and Lombardy regions. Among the traditional dishes are "risotti alla milanese" prepared with the typical Carnaroli rice; "bollito" of beef, a dish that is slowly cooked in a pot; and "cotechino" with "fagiolini Verdi", a dish typical of the Brianza tradition. As for drinks, Robbiate is famous for its local wines such as "Sassella", a red wine produced in the nearby Valtellina.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Robbiate is a municipality immersed in nature, rich in history, and tourist attractions. Thanks to its strategic location, it is easily accessible from the center of Milan and other important cities in Lombardy. If you are planning a visit to Lombardy, Robbiate definitely deserves to be included in your itinerary.
