Castellarano, Italian comune
Castellarano is a small commune in the Province of Reggio Emilia, situated on a hill beside the Secchia River. The town features historic buildings, narrow streets, remains of the medieval castle, and a parish church with Romanesque elements that date back to the Middle Ages.
Castellarano was founded over a thousand years ago and was once owned by Countess Matilda of Canossa, a powerful noblewoman. The settlement grew around the castle and a watchtower, which held strategic importance in controlling the waterway leading to Reggio Emilia.
The name Castellarano comes from its medieval castle, which shaped the town's identity. The narrow streets and the main square paved with river pebbles reflect how locals have organized their daily life around these historic layers.
The town is situated on a hill and is easily reached via the main road, with narrow lanes leading into the old center. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear, as the cobbled streets and hillside location can be demanding for extended walks.
A large whale skeleton named Valentina was discovered near San Valentino and is now displayed at the Palazzo dei Musei in Reggio Emilia. This find reveals that the region was once covered by sea millions of years ago, telling a remarkable geological story beneath the current landscape.
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