Russi
Discovering Russi, a town in the province of Ravenna
Hello everyone! Today I will talk about Russi, a town in Emilia-Romagna with a population of about 12,000. It's located a few kilometers from Ravenna, Faenza, Forli, and Cesena and boasts a two-thousand-year-old history.
History of Russi
Antiquity
The area of Russi was already affected by intensive cultivation from the 2nd century AD, as demonstrated by the archaeological area of the Roman Villa in Russi. Subsequently, due to barbarian invasions and the lack of hydraulic engineering work by humans, the area was abandoned and returned to being covered by swamps and marshes.
Middle Ages
During the High Middle Ages, the people of Faenza and Ravenna contested the territory of Russi, lying in the center of a fertile plain. The Ravennese built the military garrisons of Raffanara and Cortina to defend themselves from the attacks of the people of Faenza. In 1371, Guido da Polenta built the Castrum of Russi, which was subsequently contested for a long time by the houses of the Della Polenta and Manfredi of Faenza.
Modern age
In the 16th century, the castle of Russi underwent several sieges and pillages by foreign armies, causing great suffering to the population. In 1568, Russi came under the jurisdiction of Faenza, but managed to maintain its own magistracies and administrative autonomy. In 1688, the village was almost completely destroyed by an earthquake.
Risorgimento and Unification of Italy
In the course of the 19th century, Russi saw its prestige in politics, society, and economics grow. In fact, the Farini, Baccarini, Babini, and other prominent figures of the village were the protagonists of the Italian Risorgimento. Russi was also the first village in Romagna to rise up in the uprisings of 1831, but unfortunately the rebellion cost the life of Domenico Antonio Farini.
What to see in Russi
If you come to visit Russi, you can't miss the archaeological area of the Roman Villa, which bears witness to the millennial history of the territory. In addition, the historic center of Russi is characterized by a seventeenth-century church dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, which preserves works by great artists of the time like Gaetano Gandolfi.
But what makes the village of Russi unique is its hospitality and the beauty of the surrounding nature. In fact, the territory is crossed by the Lamone River, which offers splendid views and fantastic unspoiled nature.
What to do in Russi
One of the main events in the village is the Palio of Russi, a highly felt horse racing competition among the local population that attracts many tourists each year. In addition, hiking enthusiasts can venture into the naturalistic trails, which offer breathtaking views and the chance to spot some animal species.
Conclusion
I'm sure that Russi will be able to give you unique and unforgettable emotions. A village with a millennial history that still retains the beauty of traditions and the territory. Come and discover this treasure of Romagna, and I assure you that you won't be disappointed!
