Gattatico: A Journey Through the History of the Reggio Emilia Plain

Introduction

A journey to discover the historical, artistic and rural heritage of Gattatico, in the heart of the Reggio Emilia plain. Amidst elegant stately homes, ancient churches, historic courtyards and picturesque watermills, this itinerary allows you to explore the area’s most significant landmarks and immerse yourself in its traditions. An ideal route for lovers of local history, sacred art and the rural architecture of Emilia.

1. Ville Farnese di Pantaro

Among the most fascinating places in the area are the Ville Farnese of Pantaro, splendid residences dating back to the 16th century and used by the Dukes of Parma as hunting lodges. Nestled in the tranquillity of the countryside, these buildings stand as a valuable testament to the Farnese family’s presence in the area.

2. Chiesa di San Matteo – Praticello

In the centre of Praticello stands the Church of San Matteo, built between the 17th and 18th centuries. Of particular interest is the bell tower, constructed on oak piles driven into the ground, which still leans slightly today.

3. Chiesa di San Vitale – Olmo

Situata su un'altura artificiale, la Chiesa di San Vitale conserva al suo interno una preziosa Madonna lignea di antica fattura e una suggestiva Via Crucis in legno della Val Gardena, che arricchiscono il patrimonio artistico della chiesa.
Situated on an artificial hill, the Church of San Vitale houses a precious, ancient wooden statue of the Madonna and a striking wooden Via Crucis from Val Gardena, which enrich the church’s artistic heritage.

4. Chiesa di San Francesco – Taneto

The Church of St Francis houses important works of religious art, including a gilded chalice dating from 1605 and an elegant silver monstrance from 1776, which bear witness to the religious history of the local community.

5. The historic courtyards

The rural landscape of Gattatico is characterised by the presence of numerous farmsteads, which bear witness to centuries of rural life and the organisation of the land. Particularly noteworthy are:

• Corte Rainuzzi,north-west of Taneto;
• Corte Ferri-Bigliardi,in the hamlet of Nocetolo;
• Corte Giordani, in Taneto, with ancient frescoes and a characteristic enclosed courtyard layout;
• Corte Carmi, located in Fiesso.

6. The ancient water mills

Among the reminders of the local agricultural tradition, the ancient water mills stand out; they were once vital to the local economy. Of particular note are the Mulino di Olmo, on the Canale della Spelta, and the Mulino di Fiesso, overlooking the canal of the same name.

How to get there

By car

From the Reggio Emilia exit on the A1 motorway, follow the SS9 Via Emilia to Sant'Ilario d'Enza and continue along the SP38 Sant'Ilario-Gattatico-Sorbolo.

By train

The nearest railway stations are:

• Sorbolo, connected to Parma by the Parma–Suzzara railway line
• Sant'Ilario d'Enza, Located about 8 km from Gattatico and connected to Reggio Emilia by SETA bus services.