Varallo Pombia
Welcome to Varallo Pombia: An Ancient Piedmontese Municipality
Welcome to Varallo Pombia, a municipality located in the province of Novara in Piedmont, Italy. With a population of 4930 inhabitants, this municipality has a rich history dating back to 885. The name has had various interpretations, but according to some scholars, Varallo can mean uncultivated and rough terrain. Varallo Pombia has maintained its historic essence and is situated in a fabulous natural environment. This municipality offers several hiking trails, hosts a special nature reserve, and features enchanting sports lakes. In this article, we will tell you everything there is to know about Varallo Pombia.
Society
Demographic Evolution
Varallo Pombia has a significant presence of immigration from Southern Italy, which has helped population growth and diversification. In the history of the municipality, there has been a demographic evolution, with an increase in population reaching its peak in the 1950s, followed by a slight decrease. In recent years, however, there has been a positive trend with an increase in population.
Physical Geography
Nature Reserve and Sports Lakes
Varallo Pombia is situated in the Ticino Valley and is part of the Parco Naturale della Valle del Ticino. There are several hiking trails that cross the woods of the area and the Special Nature Reserve known as "Campo dei Fiori - Casone (Campfiò)," located on the border between the municipalities of Varallo Pombia and Pombia. The "Pesorto" sports lakes are also part of the municipality's natural attractions. The small lake has a surface of approximately 10,000 m² and a depth of about 12 meters, while the large lake has a surface of 35,000 m² and a similar depth. Both lakes are fed by spring water with a constant temperature of around 15°C throughout the year.
The Ticino (river) and the Dynamite Factory
The Ticino River flows for over 6 km in the territory of Varallo Pombia, marking the border between the Municipality of Somma Lombardo and the Provinces of Novara and Varese, and between the Piedmont and Lombardy Regions. Large piles of pebbles can be admired in the area of "Campo dei Fiori," whose purpose is still uncertain, but some believe they are residues from the washing of alluvial gold terraces. Not far from this area is the tongue of land created by the first bend of the Ticino, where in 1876 a dynamite factory was built by the company "Dinamite d'Ascona." The factory produced about half a million kilograms of dynamite used in the construction of the San Gottardo railway tunnel, which was closed after the tunnel's completion in 1880.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Varallo Pombia is a municipality of unique charm, with ancient history and enchanting natural surroundings. With its hiking trails, special nature reserve, and sports lakes, it offers various opportunities for leisure and relaxation. The Ticino River is one of the main attractions, which winds for over 6 km and therefore marks the border between the municipality and the region. Furthermore, the large piles of pebbles and the old dynamite factory add to the municipality's fascination. If you are looking for a destination that combines history and nature, Varallo Pombia is perfect for you.
