Cisterna

Everything you need to know about cisterns: from anatomy, geography, to history

Hello friends! Today I want to talk to you about an object that has different meanings, from cisterns that contain liquids to cisterns in our bodies, to common Italian places that bear this name. Are you ready? Let's get started!

Common meanings

Let's start with the most common meaning of cistern: a container for storing liquids. It can be used to store water, milk, wine and many other liquids that need protection from air and light.

Cisterns: between anatomy, geography and history

Anatomy

But not everyone knows that a cistern is also a neuroanatomical element. It is called liquor cistern and is a kind of sac that is located inside our brain, where cerebrospinal fluid flows. Cerebrospinal fluid, or CSF, is a clear substance that is found in different parts of our central nervous system and is essential for protecting the brain and spinal cord.

Geography

Now let's move on to geography. Do you know how many Italian municipalities are called Cisterna? There are as many as 11 of them! There are Cisterna d'Asti, Cisterna di Latina, Cisterna (Camerano), Cisterna (Castel di Sasso), Cisterna (Castelnuovo Parano), Cisterna (Coseano), Cisterna (Fontechiari), Cisterna (Montecopiolo), Cisterna (Paupisi), Cisterna (Polla) and Cisterna (Rovereto).

History

But there's more! Cisterna was also the name of an Italian noble family, of princely rank, now extinct. In particular, the family originated from Novara and its origins date back to the 13th century. The members of the family were very influential in the area and had various properties, including the castle of Cisterna d'Asti, which can be visited today.

People

Finally, there had to be a person who bears the name Cisterna. This is Eugenio Cisterna, an Italian sculptor, active especially in the 19th century. Among his most famous works are the statue of Dante Alighieri, which is located in Naples, and that of San Gennaro, in the cathedral of Benevento.

Conclusion

There you have it, friends, everything you need to know about cisterns! I hope you enjoyed this journey through geography, anatomy and history. Did you already know everything I told you or did you learn something new? Let me know! See you soon with new curiosities!

Luca Bianchi
Wrote by Luca Bianchi
Updated Wednesday, Jun 15, 2022