Sant'Angelo di Piove di Sacco
Piove di Sacco: a bit of history and curiosity
Piove di Sacco is an Italian municipality located southeast of Padua with a long and intriguing history. In the past, the city was called Plebs Sacci and was an important station for the Romans due to its location on two rivers. During the Middle Ages, it came under the rule of the Lombards, the Carolingians, and then the Bishopric of Padua, eventually becoming a possession of the lords of Padua, the Carraresi. In 1405, the Venetians took control of the city, maintaining it under their control for the next four hundred years.
Venetian Period
During the long period of Venetian domination, Piove di Sacco did not have an easy life, suffering from frequent floods, epidemics, and wars. In the sixteenth century, the Republic of Venice began operations to reclaim the marshy lands, forming the "Consortia of the seven intakes" and including Piove di Sacco in the "Sixth intake," which extended over 60,000 hectares. In the seventeenth century, the Venetians finally allowed the city to create a syphon canal at Conche and then at Corte, to let the reclamation waters flow into the lagoon. Over time, Piove di Sacco expanded, and public structures were built, which also gave rise to elegant buildings inhabited by the local bourgeoisie.
Piove di Sacco's Curiosities
Piove di Sacco is a city that deserves to be visited for its curiosities and traditions. In 1591, a marble base was placed in the square to support the Municipality's flag during festival days. Shortly after, the doge allowed the establishment of the Monte di Pietà, which in Piove would be managed by the friars. In the city center, you can still observe today the original plan in the shape of a quadrilateral, with Roman terraces. Well, not everyone knows that in Piove di Sacco, one of the oldest and most beautiful organs in Europe can be found. The organ, located in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, was built in 1554 and is still in use today.
Furthermore, if you happen to be in Piove di Sacco during the first Sunday of September, you can take part in the traditional September fair, where you can find artisanal products and local food.
Travel Tips for Piove di Sacco
Piove di Sacco is a place of historical and cultural interest, located half an hour by car or train from Padua. You can reach the city by train at the Piove di Sacco station, located right in the city center. There are also bus services to move around more easily.
Once in Piove di Sacco, you can start your tour following the traces of history and tradition: visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the church of San Giovanni Battista, the Palazzo del Municipio, and the Monte di Pietà. Additionally, if you are passionate about organs or sacred music, you cannot miss the organ in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.
For nature and landscape lovers, we recommend hiking in the hills of Arquà Petrarca, a small medieval village a few kilometers from the city of Piove. Here, you can admire the beauty of the surrounding landscape, enjoy delicious specialties cooked with local produce, and much more.
Conclusions
Piove di Sacco is a small city with a lot to offer. Its history, traditions, and curiosities make it a perfect place for a cultural visit and a hike in the hills. Do not hesitate to discover this fascinating city and stroll through its streets!
