Schivenoglia
Welcome to Schivenoglia, a peaceful corner of eastern Lombardy
Hello everyone! Today I'll be talking about Schivenoglia, a small town in the province of Mantua, in the heart of Lombardy. Schivenoglia is a peaceful place, ideal for those seeking a bit of tranquility away from the chaos of big cities. The name of the town derives from the word "schivare" (to avoid) and the noun "noia" (boredom), because in the past it was a prestigious holiday destination for those who wanted to avoid the boredom of city life.
Physical geography: a town surrounded by nature
Schivenoglia is located in the southeastern tip of Lombardy and is part of the municipalities of Destra Secchia. It is only 5 km from the border with the province of Modena and a few kilometers from the Po River, which divides the province of Mantua from west to east. The town covers an area of 13.17 km² and is crossed by a railway line, the Suzzara-Ferrara Railway. This small town is located at an altitude that ranges from 12 to 16 meters above sea level, making it an ideal place for outdoor walks.
History: from the 1st century AD to Austrian rule
Schivenoglia has a millenary history. According to research by the Ostigliese Archaeological Group, the territory was already inhabited in the 1st century AD. However, the first historical documents date back to 1105-1115 when Countess Matilda of Canossa donated Schivenoglia to the monks of San Benedetto in Polirone. In the past, the town was a swampy and unhealthy area, affected by several epidemics of the plague. In 1232, a terrible flood caused by the overflowing of the Po River caused extensive damage to the area. In 1575, the bishop of Mantua appointed the first parish priest of Schivenoglia, Venturino Bianchi, in response to the petition of the inhabitants tired of depending on San Giovanni del Dosso. The town was under the rule of the Gonzaga family for three and a half centuries, until 1707, when it came under Austrian rule. In 1871, Schivenoglia was incorporated into the Kingdom of Italy.
Prominent artists: Andrea da Schivenoglia and Luigi Rizzo
Schivenoglia also boasts a great artistic tradition. Andrea da Schivenoglia, born in 1411 in Mantua and died in 1481 or according to other sources in 1484 in Mantua, was an important writer. He wrote a particularly interesting "Chronicle" about the events of the neighboring areas, from 1445 to 1481. Luigi Rizzo, born in 1887 in Schivenoglia and died in 1975 in Milan, was a painter of great talent. His work is characterized by chromatic sensitivity and expressive freedom, and has been exhibited in some of Italy's most prestigious art galleries.
Current events: events and initiatives in Schivenoglia
Schivenoglia not only offers the beauty of nature, but also events and initiatives to entertain tourists and locals. Throughout the year, the municipality organizes fairs, festivals, musical evenings, and much more. Among the most famous events is the Fair of San Michele, which takes place on September 29, the feast day of the patron saint of the town, and attracts visitors from all over the province of Mantua and beyond!
Conclusions
Here is Schivenoglia, a lovely place in eastern Lombardy, with a millenary history, prominent artists, and many initiatives to never get bored. If you're looking for a quiet place to relax and admire the beauty of nature, this is the right place for you. Come and visit us and let yourself be conquered by Schivenoglia!
