Ravarino, Italian comune
Ravarino is a small town in the Province of Modena that sits along the Panaro River, surrounded by green fields and historic villas with quiet streets and old stone buildings. The main landmarks include the Church of San Giovanni Battista, rebuilt in the 1860s over a foundation from the 1100s, and the Palazzo di Donna Clarina, a townhouse with a 15th-century tower and central courtyard.
First documented in 1002, Ravarino was controlled by the powerful Rangoni family from medieval times until the late 1700s, who built grand villas and homes along the Panaro River to oversee their lands. The town's older foundation of the Church of San Giovanni Battista dates to around 1100, though the current structure was rebuilt in the 1860s.
Ravarino reflects its medieval roots through the way locals gather for traditional events like the Sagra del Tortellone and Festa di San Antonio, where residents celebrate with food, music, and community gatherings. Walking through the town, you see how faith and local customs remain part of everyday life in the small churches and public squares.
Ravarino is best explored on foot through its quiet streets and along the Panaro River, where you can see the villas and historic buildings at a leisurely pace. Plan visits to the churches and historic sites during daylight hours to appreciate the details, and if possible, time your visit with local festivals like the Sagra del Tortellone in June or the medieval reenactment in May.
The Villa Bonasi Benucci sits picturesque along the Panaro River and was built around the 1800s, but the 2012 earthquake severely damaged this noble estate. Some buildings in town still bear visible marks from this seismic event, serving as a reminder of the natural forces that have shaped the region.
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