San Vittore Olona

Welcome to San Vittore Olona

Are you ready to discover the small town of San Vittore Olona? Located in the metropolitan city of Milan, this town of 8283 inhabitants will not disappoint you. San Vittore Olona is known for its watermills on the Olona river, which have made the fortune of the area and have an important role in local history. But this is not the only reason why we invite you to visit San Vittore Olona.

A town that cares about children

San Vittore Olona made history by becoming one of the first children's cities in 2000, when Gabriele Battaglia, an elementary school student, was elected mayor of the children. With the support of elementary and middle schools in the area, Gabriele worked to improve and enhance the environment where he lived, setting an example of active participation in the community.

San Vittore Olona: history, nature and the battles of the mills.

Discovering the tranquility of the mills

One of the prominent features of San Vittore Olona is the tranquility that can be found in the area of the mills, where you can walk, run and cycle in the Castello di Legnano Park. This area is the subject of a redevelopment project called "Olona Green Way", which includes a cycle and pedestrian path. Thanks to this project, the area has been enhanced and made available for outdoor activities, and the ancient "Foppa", a wetland area with a small belvedere that offers a panoramic view of the area, has been restored. The redevelopment of the area has allowed for the attraction of bird species that haven't been seen for decades.

The history of San Vittore Olona

San Vittore Olona has ancient roots dating back to the Roman era, when it was crossed by the Severiana Augusta road. The name of the town refers to the popular saint in the Milanese diocese, Vittore il Moro, an African soldier who was beheaded for his conversion to Christianity. However, it is after the year 1000 that the village of San Vittore Olona took shape, thanks to the arrival of watermills on the Olona river. These mills had such an economic importance that they caused clashes among the great Milanese families for their possession, such as the Torriani, Visconti and Sforza. Even today, the memory of the bloody battle fought on February 21st, 1339, still lives on among the memories of the town's elders.

Conclusion

Don't miss the opportunity to visit San Vittore Olona, a pleasant and welcoming town where history, nature, and culture blend together. The town of watermills will not disappoint you, and it will surprise you with its old traditions and modernity.

Elisa Lombardi
Updated Saturday, Mar 19, 2022