Vignale
Vignale: an enchanted village in the heart of the Parma Apennines
If you are looking for an enchanted place, Vignale might be the answer you are looking for. This small geographical hamlet of the municipality of Traversetolo, in the province of Parma, is only 1.63 km from the capital and is surrounded by the hilly ridges of the Parma Apennines. The village, crossed by the Termina and Enza streams, represents a rare example of how history and nature can perfectly come together creating a timeless beauty.
Physical geography
Vignale rises on the first hilly ridges of the Parma Apennines, in an ideal area for wine cultivation thanks to the presence of numerous vineyards. In fact, the toponym of the locality, known in the 10th century as ''Viniale'', derives from the Latin word ''vinea'', with the addition of the suffix ''-alis'', referring to the scattered cultivations in the area. The flat area to the north near the Enza is home to the Cronovilla oasis, a place where the first Italian clock factory was located and which is now a protected nature reserve.
History
The history of Vignale dates back to the Paleolithic period, as evidenced by the lithic artifacts found by Pellegrino Strobel between 1878 and 1883. In the high-medieval era, between Vignale and Bottone, some isolated groups of dwellings arose that went on to constitute the village of ''Viniale'', first mentioned in 948. Later, the territory passed into the hands of the Canossa court and then to Sigifredo, the progenitor of the Baratti branch, who built the nearby Guardasone castle. The primitive chapels of the Church of the Assumption of Mary in Traversetolo and the Oratory of San Geminiano were probably built at that time. Over the centuries, Vignale followed the fortunes of Guardasone and passed into the hands of several noble families, including the Terzi and the Borromeo. In 1806, following the abolition of feudal rights decreed by Napoleon, Vignale became part of the new municipality of Traversetolo.
Cronovilla: the clock factory and the natural oasis
The history of Cronovilla is the basis of its current name. In 1872, in fact, the Vignale villa was bought by Luigi Beccarelli, who renamed it "Cronovilla" and opened the first Italian clock factory nearby. The industry, winner of numerous national and international awards, supplied Italian railway stations and the main offices of the Italian Post Office. After the closure of the factory, the structures were used as private residences. Today, the Cronovilla area is protected as a nature reserve and represents a tourist attraction of great interest for nature and history lovers.
What to see in Vignale
Visiting Vignale is like taking a trip back in time, among ancient churches, castles, and enchanted hilly landscapes. Do not miss the Church of the Assumption of Mary in Traversetolo, whose facade is entirely made of cast iron, and the Oratory of San Geminiano, located between Vignale and Bottone. But the real attraction of Vignale is its castle, Guardasone, which stood as a stronghold of the fief and was rebuilt in 1466. Walking through the vineyards of the area represents a true sensory experience and is ideal for those who want to discover the beauty of the hilly Parma landscape.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Vignale is a rare gem in the heart of the Parma Apennines. Its millennial history, the beauty of the hilly landscape, and the presence of the Cronovilla oasis make this locality an enchanted place, ideal for a visit in search of authenticity and timeless beauty.
