Stra
Stra: a historical and geographical overview
Hello everyone! Today we will talk about a small municipality in Veneto, Stra, which is located a few kilometers from Venice. With its 7,526 inhabitants, it extends along the Brenta Riviera and is best known for the numerous Venetian villas present in the territory and for the presence of footwear factories.
Physical geography
Stra is composed of three inhabited centers: Stra (the capital), San Pietro, and Paluello. The territory of the municipality extends mainly along the right bank of the Brenta Naviglio, but only a small part of the capital is located on the left bank of the river.
History
Roman Age
The name Stra derives from the Latin "strāta", meaning "paved road", indicating the area of present-day San Pietro. In Roman times, in fact, the territory of Stra was crossed by the Emilia-Altinate military road, built by the consul Marcus Aurelius Lepidus to connect Padua to Altinum and Aquileia.
Middle Ages
During the Middle Ages, Stra suffered numerous damages due to barbarian invasions. In the sixteenth century, the history of the country was linked to that of Padua and was involved in wars against Venice for border issues and the rights claimed over the waters of the Brenta. Stra was ruled by the Ezzelini and later passed under the lordship of Milan. It was then taken from Visconti rule by the Paduans, led by Francesco da Carrara.
Venetian rule
From the sixteenth century, Stra became Venetian territory. Its location and agricultural vocation made the town an ideal destination for the noble families of the Serenissima, who built the most beautiful villas along the Brenta Riviera, among which the spectacular Villa Pisani stands out, designed by Girolamo Frigimelica and frescoed by Giambattista Tiepolo and Giandomenico Tiepolo and by Mengozzi Colonna.
Contemporary Age
On June 14, 1934, Villa Pisani was the site of the meeting between the fascist leader Benito Mussolini and the leader of the German Nazi party Adolf Hitler. Today, Stra is a quiet and peaceful town, where you can admire the architectural beauty of the Venetian villas and stroll along the Brenta Riviera.
Conclusions
Well, friends, this is a brief summary of the history and physical geography of Stra, a beautiful and charming municipality. If you have the opportunity to visit Veneto, do not miss the chance to stop in Stra and admire its beauties!
