Solarolo
Solarolo: A Rich History in Emilia-Romagna
Solarolo is an Italian town located in the province of Ravenna, in Emilia-Romagna. The town has a population of 4401 inhabitants and holds a long historical past that dates back to the Bronze Age. In this friendly summary, we will explore the history of this city and discover some of the most important events that have made Solarolo what it is today.
Ancient Times
The territory of Solarolo was inhabited in prehistoric times by a community of 400-500 people who dedicated themselves to livestock breeding and the cultivation of cereals such as wheat, barley, oats, and millet. In 2006, several excavation campaigns led to the discovery of numerous artifacts dating back to the Iron Age. During the Roman period, seventy "Roman villas" were found with various artifacts such as marbles, mosaic tiles, coatings, and paintings, as well as a funeral stele from the 1st century BC belonging to citizens of the Pollia tribe.
Medieval and Modern Times
The toponym "Solarolius" appears for the first time in 993 as the name of a "fundus". In 1138, the fortified center of "castrum Solarolii" was destroyed by the Faentini in the struggle against Bologna for the supremacy of the territory between the Santerno and Senio rivers. Later, the "castrum" was rebuilt by the Faentini in 1341, after the passage from Bologna's domain to that of the Manfredi family. The original nucleus of Solarolo has a typical medieval urban structure, with some parallel streets and a connecting transverse one. The archpriestal church dedicated to Maria Assunta stands at the point where via Beltrani intersects Corso Mazzini.
In the fifteenth century, dwellings in precarious materials were replaced by masonry buildings. Around 1460-65, the Manfredi family built a new Rocca, incorporating the Tower built by the Bolognese in the fourteenth century. Later, the palisade was replaced by a city wall that enclosed the old tower. In the same period, the Annunziata oratory was erected with an attached "hospitale" for the poor and pilgrims.
In 1500, Solarolo surrendered spontaneously after Cesare Borgia conquered Faenza. Subsequently, it became part of the Papal States in 1506.
Culture in Solarolo
Today, Solarolo is a modern and lively city that combines the charm of history with the dynamism of modernity. Local traditions are still deeply rooted in the daily life of its inhabitants and are kept alive thanks to several festivals and events held throughout the year.
One of the most important events in Solarolo is the Festival of San Giovanni, which is held every year on June 24. The festival is a religious celebration but also a city-wide party: food stands are set up, there is live music, and games for children. Moreover, during the festival, a procession carrying the icon of San Giovanni parades through the streets of the old town.
Other important events are the San Lucchese Fair and the Grape Festival. The former takes place at the end of October and honors the city's patron saint; traditional music shows and tastings of local products are organized. The latter, on the other hand, is held in September and celebrates the production of grapes and wine in the area.
Tourist Attractions
Solarolo offers numerous tourist attractions, among which the Manfrediana Rocca stands out. Built in the fifteenth century, the Rocca currently houses the Solarolo Archaeological Civic Museum, which collects numerous artifacts belonging to the historical and cultural heritage of the city.
Another important attraction in Solarolo is the Parish Church of Maria Assunta. The church was built in the thirteenth century but was later rebuilt in the seventeenth century in Baroque style. Inside, visitors can admire frescoes and paintings by some local artists.
Economy and Activities
The economy of Solarolo is mainly based on agriculture and craftsmanship. The surrounding area retains a strong agricultural tradition, with some activities dedicated to the cultivation of organic products such as fruits and vegetables.
Furthermore, Solarolo hosts numerous craft activities that deal with local productions such as ceramics, stone, and wood processing.
Conclusions
Solarolo is a town rich in history and traditions, which combines the charm of the past with the liveliness of modernity. The city offers numerous tourist and cultural attractions, such as the Manfrediana Rocca and the Parish Church of Maria Assunta, and festivals such as the San Lucchese Fair and the Grape Festival. The economy of Solarolo is based on local agriculture and craftsmanship, which contribute to keeping the city's traditions alive.
