Tornaco
Welcome to Tornaco: History and Culture
Welcome to Tornaco, a small town in northern Italy located in the province of Novara, in Piedmont. With a population of 875 inhabitants, the town offers a wide range of places of interest, including ancient monuments and religious architectures that date back centuries. Throughout history, Tornaco has undergone many transformations and expansions, but there are some places of historical significance that should not be missed during a visit.
The Coat of Arms of Tornaco
The symbol of the town is represented by a coat of arms, recognized by decree of the head of the government on January 28, 1936. The gonfalon, granted by decree of the president of the Republic on February 9, 1993, consists of a green and white truncated drapery.
The Monuments of Tornaco
Religious Architecture
Tornaco is home to numerous ancient churches, including the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, dating back to the 12th century. Over the centuries, the church has undergone numerous renovations and expansions, until it assumed its current structure, consisting of five aisles with side chapels. The walls of the church are embellished with frescoes representing the Madonna, Saints Peter, and Francis. The high altar and balustrade are in Baroque style and were made of polychrome marble by the Colombara brothers in 1789.
The Oratory of Santo Stefano, located in the extra-urban area, is particularly significant because it was built on parts of a much earlier construction. The shape of the apse dates back to the 11th century and features a wide dimension divided by five pilasters that connect with paired hanging arches. Inside, there are frescoes depicting the Virgin with Child, St. John the Baptist, and St. Eusebius.
The Oratory of St. Eusebius, located near the municipal cemetery, is an ancient building that has become deconsecrated and dilapidated. It dates back to the year 969 and was the subject of exchanges between the Bishop of Novara Aupaldo and Austreverto of Tornaco.
The Church of San Carlo, located at the highest point of the town, is characterized by a unique architecture with a single nave plan. The façade features a tripartite structure of the exterior front created by pilasters, also divided horizontally into two superimposed orders.
Conclusions
In conclusion, if you are interested in the history and culture of northern Italy, Tornaco is a destination you should not miss. From the architectural and artistic heritage of the city to the ancient churches with their wonderful frescoes, Tornaco offers numerous opportunities to immerse yourself in the past and understand the richness of the history and culture of this area of the province of Novara. While waiting to welcome you, we wish you an unforgettable experience in our country!
