Volpara

Welcome to Volpara, a small hidden treasure in Oltrepò Pavese!

If you are in search of a place that is out of time and away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Volpara is the right destination for you. This municipality, with only 124 inhabitants, is located in the province of Pavia, in Lombardy, and is a true hidden gem. Always linked to the history of the territory, Volpara boasts various testimonies of medieval architecture thanks to its monuments and history.

The history of Volpara: this is how it all began

Volpara has ancient origins and various historical documents show us its past belonging to noble families of the time. It is believed that around the year 1000, the territory belonged to the count of Piacenza Lanfranco, and later to the son-in-law Uberto, count of Pombia. The situation became more complex when the Emperor Henry II the Saint decided to take Vulpèra from Uberto, as he joined the rebellion of Arduino d'Ivrea. In 1250, the municipality appeared in the list of lands of the pavese domain and subsequently passed to the feud of Montecalvo Versiggia. Over the years, it changed owners several times, until it came to the Belcredi, who held it until the abolition of feudalism in 1797.

Volpara: the medieval town hidden among the hills of the Oltrepò Pavese.

Monuments and places of interest in Volpara

The municipality of Volpara is rich in historical monuments, real treasures of medieval architecture. One of these is the Castle of Volpara, which stands on the top of the town and today is one of the symbols of the city. The castle dates back to the late eleventh century and has been inhabited, in the various centuries, by some of the most important noble families of Lombardy. Another point of interest is represented by the Church of Saints Cosma and Damiano, located at the entrance of the town. Its construction dates back to the seventeenth century and was completed only in 1742. Of particular interest are the frescoes and decorations that characterize it.

Society: the demographic evolution of Volpara

The community of Volpara is very small and has only 124 inhabitants, of which 45% are men and 55% are women. The average age of the community is 52 years. Since the post-war period, emigration has led to a reduction in the permanent population to a few hundred people.

Administration of Volpara

Volpara is part of the mountain area of the Oltrepò Pavese Mountain Community. The administration of the municipality is responsible for managing all aspects related to the life of the inhabitants, from road maintenance to the management of municipal services. In addition, the administration is committed to promoting the various events and initiatives that take place in the town.

Notes on the municipality of Volpara

The municipality of Volpara, despite being very small, can boast of a great past and various testimonies of medieval architecture. Its hilltop location makes the surrounding landscape particularly suggestive and makes it a perfect destination for nature and tranquillity lovers.

External links to discover more about Volpara

If you are interested in learning more about Volpara, we recommend visiting the official website of the municipality. Here you will find detailed information about the cultural, tourism and commercial activities that take place in the town and you will discover many other curious details of this small pearl in Oltrepò Pavese. Welcome to Volpara!

Matteo Ferrari
Updated Monday, Sep 12, 2022