The Italian territory is so rich in hidden treasures that it is difficult to discover them all. Search after search, we always find ourselves revealing the names of destinations to visit absolutely. One of these is certainly San Giovanni in Marignano, a splendid village located in Emilia Romagna. To reach it, it is necessary to go into the hinterland of Rimini, where travelers can find themselves enveloped by a blanket of stillness, so massive as to seem breathable. It is a journey back in time, in some ways, considering how a calm and relaxed atmosphere of this kind is difficult to spot elsewhere.
San Giovanni in Marignano, the history
The origins of this village are ancient, whose name seems to derive from the first church that was built on the territory, dating back to the XNUMXth century: the Church of St. John the Baptist. The fate of the village changes in the fifteenth century, under the management of the Malatesta family. Great economic importance acquired by the place, which was transformed into a huge grain deposit. Everything was kept underground. A precious resource, to be defended at any cost. This is why an imposing wall was erected all around. A work designed, it seems, with the help of Filippo Brunelleschi.
The nickname “ithe granary of the Malatesta family". The lords of Rimini contended for possession during the sixteenth century, fighting against the Church and the Republic of Venice. The ecclesiastical state managed to prevail, maintaining its dominion until the unification of Italy.
Get inspired
One of the things to do absolutely in San Giovanni in Marignano is to get lost in its streets, savoring the peace of this place. Splendid the Old Town, starting from its main street, via XX Settembre. To get there you can go through theancient front door, located below the Civic Tower, dating back to the fifteenth century.
The streets are made up of cobblestones and it is still possible today to identify the signs to highlight the grain pits of the time. Certainly worth visiting Parish Church of San Pietro, dating back to the thirteenth century (remodeled hundreds of years later). A precious organ of the '700 is kept in the Church of Saint Lucia. It is worth going there and admiring it, with its 600 tin and wood canes. Also to be added to the list is the Municipal Theater, dedicated to Augusto Massari, as well as the Entomological Exhibition and Palazzo Corbucci, today the seat of exhibitions and events.
The traditions
Various events take place throughout the year in San Giovanni in Marignano. Emilia-Romagna is a land of festivals and celebrations and one cannot avoid mentioning the Fair of Santa Lucia, which takes place every December 13th. Event characterized by the lighting of hundreds of candles.
Il New Year of Wine instead it takes place in September. The goal is the celebration of the lands that produce the prestigious vines of the area. Just think of Barolo. In June, however, space is left for Night of the Witches. It is the best known event in the area. An excellent mix of pagan beliefs and religious traditions. The streets of the village come alive for a magical evening.
Myths and legends
The Night of the Witches, a famous event in the area, is linked to an ancient legend. It is said that witches find themselves at crossroads, so as to perform their spells using the energy of the solstice, dancing barefoot under a walnut tree for the diabolical sabbath. Before daybreak, they collect the dew-soaked herbs and create ointments and potions that are miraculous.
It is said that he lived in San Giovanni in Marignano Artemisia, good witch of Valconca, able to eliminate evil eyes and interpret tarot cards. This festival is held in his honor, which lasts by 19 23 to June, in the days of the Summer Solstice.
Source of the photo in evidence San Giovanni in Marignano - Statue Torquato Tamagnini - Source: Howwi - CC BY-SA 3.0
