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Scandiano: Treasure of the province of Reggio Emilia
Hello friends! Today I want to talk to you about Scandiano, a municipality located in the province of Reggio Emilia, Emilia-Romagna, famous for its history and natural beauty.
Physical Geography
The territory of Scandiano covers 49.81 square kilometers and is located between the edge of the Reggio Emilia hills and the high plains, on the right bank of the Tresinaro stream. From here, you can admire the natural beauty of the area, with an altitude that varies from 50 m to 423 m above sea level (mount Evangelo). The municipality is composed of numerous hamlets, including Arceto, Cacciola, Ca' de Caroli, Mazzalasino, Chiozza, Fellegara, Iano, Pratissolo, Bosco, Rondinara, San Ruffino (Scandiano) and Ventoso.
Climate
According to data from the Scandiano-Ca' de' Caroli meteorological station, the climate of the area is typical of the Po Valley, characterized by a cold winter and a hot summer.
History
The history of Scandiano dates back to the Neolithic period, where important archaeological finds have been discovered, such as the Venus of Chiozza, kept at the civic museum of Reggio Emilia. During the Romanization period, the Scandiano territory had a Celtic-Ligurian culture, in continuity with the territory of the Boi Galli.
In 1262, Gilberto Fogliani founded the current settlement with the construction of the Rocca dei Boiardo, around which dwellings developed. Later, the castle was transformed into a noble residence by the Boiardo (family) Counts of Scandiano, the Thiene (family) marquises, the Bentivoglio, and the Este.
The history of Scandiano is intimately linked to the castle, where the poet Matteo Maria Boiardo was born and where the great Lazzaro Spallanzani carried out his experiments. In addition to them, the castle also hosted figures such as Francesco Petrarca, the reformer Giovanni Calvino, and Pope Paul III.
In 1796, the Scandiano community rebelled against the ducal government and joined the newborn Reggio Republic, while with the fall of the Este duchy, the municipal territory of Scandiano was divided.
Discovering Scandiano
Where to go
One of Scandiano's main attractions is the Scandiano Castle. Its impressive building is a true masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and an important cultural center of the territory. Inside, you can visit the Civic Museum, a vast collection of artwork, archaeological artifacts, and objects from the peasant and artisanal traditions.
But Scandiano is also known for its churches, such as the church of San Giacomo, dating back to 1500, and the church of Saints Giovanni and Paolo, which houses important works of art.
What to do
Scandiano is a perfect place for nature lovers. You can take long walks along the trails of the woods, such as those of the Giant Regional Park, which offers marvelous panoramic views of the surrounding nature.
For enthusiasts of contemporary art, instead, you can visit the Vascello House Museum, located in the former plastics factory Casalgrande Padana, and the Museum Lab 21, located in the premises of the former Psychiatric Hospital.
Where to eat
Scandiano's cuisine is closely linked to the roots of Emilia Romagna's culinary tradition, among which stand out tortellini, cappelletti, tagliatelle, and lasagna. But Scandiano is also famous for its typical products, such as Lambrusco, Parmigiano Reggiano, salami, and cheese.
Among the best restaurants in the area, I recommend Il Rifugio del Barone, La Frasca, Trattoria La Madia, Ristorante Al Cantuccio, where you can taste the local delicacies.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Scandiano is one of the most interesting places in the province of Reggio Emilia, rich in history, art, and natural beauty. Ideal for a day trip, it offers numerous attractions to visit and discover. What are you waiting for? Come to Scandiano and let yourself be fascinated by its beauty and charm!
