Rudiano
The Battle of Mala Morte: A Historic Legend
The Battle of Rudiano, also known as the Battle of Mala Morte, was a clash that occurred on July 7th, 1191 between the commune of Bergamo and its allies, and the commune of Brescia supported by the commune of Milan. This event is still the subject of legend and stories passed down from generation to generation.
Prelude: The Causes of the Clash
The exact cause of this clash is unknown, but it seems to have originated from boundary issues between Bergamo and Brescia along the Oglio River. A specific event seems to be the purchase by Brescia of land in Calepio, Sarnico, Merlo, and Mezze on the western side of the Oglio, formerly owned by the Counts of Calepio. Additionally, the alliance between Brescia and Crema against Cremona was another factor that led to the clash. The battle was also a turning point in the third war for the possession of the Volpino Castle, contested between the two factions for a century.
The Clash
The armies were positioned along opposite banks of the Oglio River, and in the late morning of July 7th, the Brescian army headed towards the invaders who were plundering the territory. In the first phase of combat, the forces seemed balanced, but the delay of the Milanese allies demoralized the Brescians who began to scatter. At that moment, Biatta da Palazzo, with his small number of men, decided to intervene and marched towards the scene of the clash. At the sound of trumpets and drums, behind the Cremonese and Bergamaschi, the situation suddenly reversed. The enemy troops fled, perhaps fearing the arrival of Milanese reinforcements, and the hastily built bridge collapsed, drowning many men.
The Legend of Sant'Obizio di Niardo
According to legend, one of the participants in the Battle of Rudiano was Sant'Obizio di Niardo, a miraculous warrior who, with his sword dedicated to Archangel Michael, performed heroic deeds during the clash. It is even reported that his sword was capable of decapitating the enemy with a single blow.
Conclusion
The Battle of Rudiano remains one of the most fascinating historical legends in Northern Italy. Despite the uncertain causes of the clash, the memory of the deeds of the warriors who participated in such an event has been passed down from generation to generation. The Battle of Rudiano is a testimony to the courage and strength of medieval warriors and their commitment to asserting their territory and identity.
