Villanova del Sillaro

Nestled in the Lodi province, Villanova del Sillaro whispers tales of a rich past. Villanova del Sillaro wasn’t always its name. For centuries, this agricultural haven was simply known as Villa Nuova. The Rho family, prominent figures in Lodi and Milan, once held feudal control over Villanova del Sillaro. Their influence extended to nearby Borghetto Lodigiano. In 1488, they relinquished their rights to the Olivetan Abbey. Nicolò Sommariva, brother of the renowned Cardinal Angelo d’Anna de Sommariva, founded this abbey in 1428. Dedicated to the patron saints of the two brothers, Saints Nicola and Angelo, the abbey thrived. It became one of the most important in the diocese, second only in income. Its wealth was evident in its extensive library, lavish furnishings, and a community of 20 to 30 monks. The 18th century marked the beginning of an ambitious reconstruction. The abbey was to be transformed in the late Baroque style. However, the French Revolution brought these plans to a halt. The abbey was suppressed in 1797. Today, the 15th-century church of Saints Michael the Archangel and Nicholas the Bishop, now the parish church, still stands. Part of the adjacent Abbey Palace also remains, though it was long used as a rural building. A significant change occurred in 1863. Villanova officially became Villanova del Sillaro, taking its name from the Sillaro river that flows through it. A few years later, in 1878, the municipalities of Bargano and Mongiardino Sillaro were incorporated into Villanova del Sillaro.