Travo
The wonderful Travo, a township in the province of Piacenza
Hello everyone! Today I would like to talk to you about a beautiful township in Emilia-Romagna, called Travo, which has a population of 2162 and is located in the province of Piacenza, in the Trebbia Valley. The town overlooks the left bank of the Trebbia River and has three bridges that connect it to the right bank, each with its own particularity.
Physical geography
Territory
The territory of Travo covers almost the entire Trebbia Valley, between the low valley to the north and the middle valley. The capital city is located at 443 meters above sea level, while its maximum altitude is 1309 meters. The southern part of the Travo township extends into the Perino Valley, which is crossed by the eponymous tributary of the Trebbia River and marks the southern border of the town with the township of Coli. The western part of Travo instead falls within the Luretta Valley, which marks the border with the township of Piozzano.
Climate
The climate of Travo is continental, with cold winters and hot summers. However, unlike the Po Valley, the climate of Travo is quite mild and temperate. Thanks to its location, situated above the median height of the thermal inversions of the Po Valley, the town does not suffer from phenomena such as heatwaves or fog.
Origin of the name
According to a legend passed down, Travo takes its name from its founder, a Gallic condottiere named Triverio who lived during the time of the Cretan king Minos. It is said that he founded the first nucleus of the inhabited center, but there is no conclusive evidence.
Historical references
Travo has an ancient history, dating back to prehistoric times. During the Roman period, the city was known as "Termodonte" and was an important trading center. In the Middle Ages, Travo played a strategic role in the fight between the cities of Piacenza and Parma for control of the Trebbia Valley. In the nineteenth century, the township of Travo was part of the kingdom of Italy and was also involved in the two world wars.
What to visit in Travo
Travo has numerous sites of cultural and naturalistic interest. One of the most beautiful places to visit absolutely is the Pietra Parcellara, a mountain of black serpentinite ophiolite that dominates the surrounding hills. This mountain, not particularly high, is known for the differential erosion that made it unique in its form. Near the top, there are some water collection basins inhabited by two different species of newts. Another ophiolite mountain to visit is the Pietra Perduca, 659 meters above sea level, which was once a sacred place dedicated to the Celtic-Ligurian god Pan. Near the top of the mountain is the Oratory of Sant'Anna, built in the tenth century, and the remains of a castle destroyed in 1170.
Conclusions
I hope this brief introduction to Travo has made you want to visit this splendid township in Emilia-Romagna. Between its naturalistic beauty and its historical testimonials, Travo will certainly give you an unforgettable experience. See you next time!
