Vighizzolo d'Este
Vighizzolo d'Este: a small Venetian town
Vighizzolo d'Este, also known as Vighissolo in Venetian, is an Italian municipality located in the lowlands of Padova. With a population of approximately 907 inhabitants, the town has a predominantly agricultural economy.
History
The history of Vighizzolo d'Este is ancient, and the name seems to derive from "Viculus," which means "small village." The first written document dates back to 980 AD, concerning the exchange of land between the Bishop of Verona and two Monselice spouses. Subsequently, other documents mention the town as "Vigizolo." In 1077, Emperor Henry IV of Franconia indicated the possessions of the Marchesi d'Este, including Vighizzolo d'Este.
During this period, the town was surrounded by swamps and canals with a fishing lake in the center. A fortification was also built but was destroyed and rebuilt several times. In 1483, a traveler's writing described the presence of a dilapidated tower.
Vighizzolo d'Este was also attacked by the warlord Ezzelino III da Romano in 1248 and conquered by the Marquis Malaspina in 1334. After the rule of Marchese Aldovrandino d'Este, the town was ceded to the Da Carrara family. In 1405, it became part of the dominions of the Republic of Venice.
With the advent of the Republic of Venice in the sixteenth century, the reclamation of the area began, which would only be completed in 1920-1921. The parish church dedicated to St. John the Baptist dates back to 1077 and underwent several modifications until it became Baroque in style in 1757.
Symbols
The municipality does not have an official coat of arms but freely uses a coat of arms composed of a white wagon to represent the town's agriculture. The stars replace the wheels and represent the two inhabited nuclei of the town: Vighizzolo d'Este (the capital) and the fraction of Tre Canne. The blue field recalls the lake that once existed in the territory. The town's flag is a split white and blue flag.
Demographic evolution
In recent decades, the population of Vighizzolo d'Este has remained substantially stable.
Culture
The main event in the town is the "Sagra della Madonna della Neve," which takes place on the first Sunday of August.
Administration
The municipality of Vighizzolo d'Este has seen several mayors in recent years, including Stefano Girotto, Antonio Baratella, Lucillo Girotto, Michele Barbetta, Andrea Vanni, Paolo Vigato, Mattia Carniello, and Ylenia Belluco.
Conclusions
Although Vighizzolo d'Este is a small Venetian town, it has an ancient history and a predominantly agricultural economy. The town still maintains many of its traditions today and is an ideal destination for those looking for a quiet and interesting holiday exploring life in the Italian countryside.
