Cornegliano Laudense

Gazing across the fertile plains of the Po Valley, you’ll find Cornegliano Laudense. It’s a small comune nestled in the heart of Lombardy, Italy. Cornegliano Laudense may seem unassuming at first glance. But beneath its tranquil surface lies a rich tapestry of history. Cornegliano Laudense traces its origins back to ancient times. The Capitanei di Cornegliano, a noble family, held feudal control over the area for an extended period. Following their lineage’s decline, power transferred to a cadet branch, and from 1633, to the counts Barni. Cornegliano Laudense briefly became part of the city of Lodi during the Napoleonic era (1809-1816). It regained its autonomy upon the establishment of the Lombardo-Venetian Kingdom. An interesting fact about Cornegliano Laudense is that its name wasn’t always so specific. In 1863, the town officially became Cornegliano Laudense. This was done to differentiate it from other towns with the same name. Adding “Laudense” helped clarify its location within the Lodi province. The growth of Cornegliano Laudense took another turn in 1879. The municipality of Campolungo merged with Cornegliano Laudense. The administrative center shifted to the frazione of Muzza Sant’Angelo. This marked a significant change in the town’s structure. Today, Cornegliano Laudense consists of three distinct areas. The original small borgo of Cornegliano Laudense retains its historic charm. The bustling frazione of Muzza Sant’Angelo serves as the administrative hub. The Codognino, a more recent development, thrives as a center for artisan workshops and businesses. The main church in Cornegliano Laudense, dedicated to San Callisto Martire, holds historical significance. Documents from 1261 mention the church’s connection to the Laudense curia. Inside, you can find an intriguing fresco depicting the Madonna between two saints. These saints are possibly San Bassiano and San Callisto. The church also houses a depiction of the Nativity, dating back to the period between the late 15th and early 16th centuries. The church’s facade reflects a blend of architectural styles. It draws inspiration from late Renaissance models with subsequent Baroque interventions. Another noteworthy site is the Cascina Sesmones. Historical sources suggest that around the year 1000, this structure functioned as a hospital, adding another layer to the town’s history.