Romano d'Ezzelino
Romano d'Ezzelino: a Veneto municipality surrounded by hills and plains
Romano d'Ezzelino is located in the province of Vicenza and has a population of 14,242. The town is characterized by an interesting geographical position, being located on the southern slopes of Monte Grappa and surrounded by hills, while to the south stretches the Venetian plain. The municipality is divided into four residential areas: Costalunga, on Monte Grappa, Romano capoluogo, between the hills and the plain, San Giacomo, Fellette and Sacro Cuore, located in the plain.
Origins of the name and toponymy
The toponym Romano has an ancient history, dating back to the 12th century, when a member of the Ecelo family was first mentioned "da loco Aunerio et Romano". The name can be interpreted as a personal name or as a reference to the ancient Romans. The specification "d'Ezzelino" was added later with the Royal Decree of January 5, 1868.
History and connections with Dante Alighieri
The Ezzelino family played an important role in the history of Romano d'Ezzelino. Ecelo II "il Monaco" and his two sons, Ezzelino III and Alberico II, reached great power until 1260, which is why they were remembered as "da Romano". The municipality is also mentioned in the Divine Comedy: in Paradise, canto nono, Dante meets the spirit of Cunizza da Romano, sister of Ezzelino III, who welcomes him with kind words. In Colle, where the encounter takes place, there is now a circular base bell tower as a testimony to the ancient Castle of the Ezzelini. On Col Bastia you can also visit the church of Romano and a monument to Dante Alighieri.
The symbol of Romano d'Ezzelino
The coat of arms of Romano d'Ezzelino was created by the designer Giovan Battista Verci, who was inspired by the imaginative weapons of Ezzelino III da Romano, whose figure was associated with justice and obedient subordination. The coat of arms is divided into two parts: the first presents eight gold-green bands, the second nine lilies. Above the shield is a crowned helmet symbolizing the greatness of the family, which carries on the visor a cross in memory of the crusades. As a crest we find a half-crowned swan with open wings, holding a horseshoe, symbol of Ezzelino III.
In summary, Romano d'Ezzelino is a Venetian municipality with an ancient history and a very relevant artistic and cultural heritage. The connections with Dante Alighieri and the Ezzelini make this place unique and fascinating for visitors.
