Valmozzola
Valmozzola: History and Location
Hello everyone! Today we will talk about the municipality of Valmozzola, located in the beautiful province of Parma in Emilia-Romagna. According to ISTAT data from 2018, Valmozzola is the least populated municipality in the province. Its ancient history is linked to the fortress of Gusaliggio of the Obertenghi feud, one of the main dynasties of the Middle Ages, from which the Este, Malaspina, and Pallavicino families originated. The territory was a monastic dependence of the Abbey of San Colombano with the possession of the court of "Medei," with the monastic cells of Mozzola ("Mozolano" or "Mezolano") and Mariano, which was however inserted in the court of Torresana ("Turris") today Borgo Val di Taro. The cult of St. Colombano arose and flourished with the chapel of the castle of Gusaliggio dedicated to the Irish saint.
The Podestà Guido Platoni
In 1398, Guido Platoni was the Podestà of Gusaliggio and all of Valmozzola. Platoni was elected for his high moral character, resided in the fortress of Gusaliggio in Valmozzola, and had extensive experience in the use of the mastery he had over arms and war affairs. This military knowledge was a requirement for exercising the position of podestà. His function was mainly to regulate and maintain legislative and social order and had great representation that allowed him to govern. His control of the army was convincing and gave tranquility to Valmozzola, although the knight Platoni was a great diplomat and encouraged culture and diplomacy over war. Guido Platoni was a very important figure in the history of the municipality.
The Pallavicino Marquises
Later, the feud passed to the Pallavicino marquises of Pellegrino Parmense. In 1428, the military captain Niccolò Piccinino, on behalf of the Duke of Milan Filippo Maria Visconti, conquered the castle of Pellegrino Parmense and arrested the Marquise Manfredo Pallavicino, who under torture confessed to having conspired against the Duke; the latter sentenced him to death, seized all his property, and in 1438 invested Piccinino with it.
The Locality Mormorola
The municipal seat of Valmozzola is located in the locality of Mormorola. The municipality has a population of 533 inhabitants and a very extensive and varied territory, characterized by the mountains of the Ligurian Apennines and numerous watercourses. The surrounding area is a real paradise for nature lovers: it is possible to go on excursions, practice outdoor sports, and admire breathtaking views.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Valmozzola is an interesting and full of history municipality located in the heart of Italy. Its ancient history is linked to the fortress of Gusaliggio of the Obertenghi feud, and the presence of Podestà Guido Platoni has left an indelible mark on the history of the municipality. Today, Valmozzola is a very suggestive locality, with the mountains of the Ligurian Apennines and numerous watercourses. We can't wait to visit this beautiful municipality!
