Sant'Ilario d'Enza
Welcome to Sant'Ilario d'Enza!
Hello everyone! Are you ready to explore Sant'Ilario d'Enza with me? This Italian comune, located between Reggio Emilia and Parma, is definitely a treasure to discover. With its 20 square kilometers and 11,261 inhabitants, Sant'Ilario d'Enza is a municipality rich in history and natural beauty. Let's discover together what makes this place so special.
Physical geography
Located on the Via Emilia, Sant'Ilario d'Enza is surrounded by a green and lush landscape. The Enza stream flows two kilometers west of the town center, and the communal territory is made up of 13 hamlets. From Bettolino to San Rocco, each hamlet has its own particular charm.
Origin of the name
Did you know that Sant'Ilario d'Enza was originally called Sant'Eulalia? The name was probably changed to Sant'Ilario thanks to the presence of the Hospitale S.Hilarii, a place of rest for pilgrims traveling the ancient Via Emilia. The first official document that mentions Sant'Ilario as a municipality dates back to 1714, although the name already appears in the chronicle of Fra'Salimbene in the 13th century.
The history of Sant'Ilario d'Enza
Sant'Ilario d'Enza has a history that dates back to the time of the Roman Empire. The territory was initially part of the village of Tannetum, as evidenced by the presence of numerous Roman tombs in the area. After the fall of the Empire, the region was inhabited by barbarian populations such as the Lombards, the Franks, and the Hungarians. In the 11th, 12th, and 13th centuries, the Via Emilia saw an increase in traffic and numerous "hospitals" were built, such as the one that gave Sant'Ilario its name.
During the Middle Ages, Sant'Eulalia first belonged to the count and then to the Duchy of Parma. It was a small municipality dependent on the jurisdiction of Montecchio Emilia. From 1349 to 1403, Montecchio and its villages were granted by the Visconti to Alberico da Barbiano, a famous condottiero. In 1404, Montecchio and its territories were ceded to Ottobuono de' Terzi, and then to the Estensi lordship. Only in 1428 did Sant'Eulalia become definitively part of the Marchesato of Montecchio.
What to see in Sant'Ilario d'Enza
Sant'Ilario d'Enza has historical monuments and natural beauties not to be missed. The parish church of Sant'Ilario, dedicated to Sant'Eulalia, is an architectural beauty. It was built in the 18th century in neoclassical style. The church of San Rocco in Bettolino, on the other hand, dates back to the 16th century and was restored in 1998.
But Sant'Ilario d'Enza is not just history. The city also boasts breathtaking natural beauties. The Refrone Oasis is a magical place where nature lovers can enjoy a quiet walk and come into contact with the local fauna. The Enza River Park, on the other hand, is perfect for those who love water sports. Here you can go canoeing or kayaking, or maybe catch something fresh for dinner.
Events in Sant'Ilario d'Enza
Sant'Ilario d'Enza is a municipality that knows how to celebrate! Every year, in the first days of June, the patron saint festival in honor of Sant'Eulalia takes place. On August 15, the Assumption of Mary is celebrated with a big party in the square. But that's not all: Sant'Ilario d'Enza also boasts several festivals, such as the Porcini Mushroom Festival, which takes place every autumn in Calerno.
Conclusions
In short, Sant'Ilario d'Enza is a municipality that has a lot to offer. From historical buildings to natural beauties, passing through events and themed events, this place has everything. If you are looking for a quiet and picturesque place to spend a few days, Sant'Ilario d'Enza could be exactly what you are looking for.
