Poised amid the bustling plains south of Milan sits an unexpected rise. This is the Parco della Collina di San Colombano. It is not just any hill but a treasure trove of environmental and agricultural significance. Today we will explore the story that is etched into the very soil of the Parco della Collina di San Colombano.
The primary aim of establishing the Parco della Collina di San Colombano was to protect its unique environment and agricultural heritage. This park fosters a harmonious blend of agriculture and nature. It promotes the enjoyment of the land through scenic routes perfect for pedestrians and cyclists.
Imagine this: you are standing on the highest point. It rises dramatically to 147 meters above sea level. From here you can experience the most typical example of an isolated high point in the Po Valley.
The Parco della Collina di San Colombano stretches about 8.000 meters in length. Its average width is just under 2.000 meters. It nestles between the Lambro River to the northeast and the Po River to the south. This unique location contributes to its ecological importance.
Administratively, the Parco della Collina di San Colombano spans five municipalities across three provinces. These include San Colombano al Lambro in the Province of Milan. There are also Sant’Angelo Lodigiano and Graffignana in the Province of Lodi. Finally, there are Miradolo Terme and Inverno e Monteleone in the Province of Pavia.
For centuries the Parco della Collina di San Colombano has been known for its viticulture. The grapes and wine produced here have shaped the history and culture of the surrounding villages. Since 1984, it has been a designated area of controlled origin. Here the San Colombano wine is produced. It is the only DOC wine made in the Milanese and Lodi territories.
The Parco della Collina di San Colombano plays a crucial role in the RER Regional Ecological Network. It serves as a primary corridor that facilitates ecological connections between key areas. This allows animal and plant species to spread.
Until the post-war era, the Parco della Collina di San Colombano was almost entirely dedicated to vineyards, orchards, and vegetable gardens. The economic boom led to a significant departure from rural life. This caused a radical shift in agricultural traditions.
In the early 1970s, local administrations imposed building restrictions. This helped to preserve the Parco della Collina di San Colombano from excessive development. In 2009, an agreement was formalized between the municipalities to manage the PLIS of the Collina di San Colombano. The Lombardy Region officially recognized the park in 2017.
The logo of the Parco della Collina di San Colombano is a visual representation of its key elements. These are architecture, agricultural production, and nature.
The logo incorporates a Ghibelline swallowtail merlon from the castle of San Colombano. It also includes a stylized bunch of grapes. The design represents the hills cultivated with vineyards using the traditional ritto chino method. The colors evoke the preparation of the soil and the spring budding.
As we conclude our visit to the Parco della Collina di San Colombano, consider its vital role. It protects biodiversity and preserves agricultural traditions. As you leave, carry with you an appreciation for this special place.