Bedonia

Bedonia is a comune within the Province of Parma, in Emilia-Romagna (Italy). History The communal territory was already settled during the Neolithic age, and later was a Roman colony, under the name of Bitunia. From the 11th century it was a fief of the bishops of Piacenza, and later of the Malaspina. In 1257 it was included in the State of the Landi, to which it belonged until 1682, when it was confiscated by the Duchy of Parma. During the Risorgimento, the population was protagonist of an insurrectionary movement for the annexation of the country to Piedmont. In recent times Bedonia has been given an important role as a remembrance community that contributed to the Partisan fights (during World War II). In the life of Bedonia an important role of cultural promotion has been carried out from the Seminary, instituted in 1846 from Mons. Giovanni Agazzi and Stefano Grapnels. Main sights The city, just a few miles away from Liguria, is characterized by colorful buildings of obvious Ligurian influence. The city has two important churches: Sant'Antonino, a Baroque church in the historical center, and the Basilica of San Marco, which is next to the Seminario Vescovile (built in 1846). In it there is a Planetarium, a Museum of Natural History, a Xylographic Exposition, an Art Gallery and a gigantic National Library. The Sanctuary of the Madonna di S. Marco (Madonna of S. Mark), built in 1939, conserves one wooden statue created in 1531 representing the Madonna with Child on throne. The ancient Arc of Entrance to the old town is now being included in the breathtaking system of the "Peschiera Park". Also, in Via Trieste (Trieste street) there is an important historical building that shows the Landi family symbol. It's among the most important noble constructions in the whole valley of river Taro. Of value are the natural resources and landscapes. North of the town, the Mountain Pelpi reaches 1,410 metres (4,630 ft), on top of which there is a huge cross. It is a pilgrimage site after a miracle of the Virgin Mary occurred over a century ago. In the center of the village a river runs (Pelpirana) which converges a few miles after into the Taro River. A few miles west, the tallest mountain (Monte Penna) reaches about 1,745 metres (5,725 ft). It is also a pilgrimage place and a suggestive rocky peak surrounded by green forests. However the province lies between 468 and 1,745 metres (1,535 and 5,725 ft) above sea level. During recent years, many sporting structures have been built (swimming pool, camping, tennis fields, etc.). Economy An important voice of the local economy is represented by tourism. The area is dependent on summer tourists passing by to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside. Although the area is not well known to many tourists the uniqueness of the area lets them enjoy the facilities in tranquility. Once in the region you are able to make use of the modern sports complexes (swimming-pools, tennis courts, volleyball and basketball courts, skating and football) and an equipped camping complex, which is situated on one of the most beautiful hills of the town. The swimming pool is a major tourist attraction in the town and is a pleasurable place to swim and take in the surrounding panorama. Also available are mushroom picking opportunities which includes the world famous Porcino Valtarese. Famous people Francesco Cura Franco Nero External links Bedonia Info Valtaro Community info Bedonia Valtaro info