Calendasco: Via Francigena and history on the Po

In Calendasco, travelers encounter three distinct themes: the Via Francigena, historical traces in the landscape, and activities along the river embankments. The route passes through the town, while Roman remains and buildings offer further perspectives on its history. If you are looking for hotels in Calendasco, consider the focus of your stay: the pilgrimage route, cultural history, or time outdoors.

The Via Francigena and the river crossing

The Via Francigena leads from the Po at Guado di Sigerico through Calendasco. The pilgrimage route includes the crossing from Corte Sant’Andrea on the Lombard bank to Soprarivo; from there, it continues through Calendasco. Check the transport arrangements for the river crossing separately if your journey includes it.

The ancient port on the Po in Calendasco is of Roman origin and made the town an important hub on the Via Francigena. Together, the river crossing and the port represent different aspects of the connection between Calendasco and the Po: the route on one hand, and the history of the Roman port on the other. If you view the town as a stage on your journey, you can consider both the route and the port’s history.

Roman remains, the church, and the castle

A large section of the Roman centuriation and part of the ancient consular road are still visible in the landscape. These traces differ from a single building: they draw attention to historical structures in the landscape. Together with the Roman origins of the port, they add another perspective to the history of the Via Francigena. When planning your trip, you can distinguish between landscape remains, the pilgrimage route, and individual buildings.

The paintings in the Chiesa di Santa Maria date from between 1500 and 1600. This extends the historical perspective beyond the Roman connections to a later period in art history. If you want to compare the town’s different themes, you can consider the paintings as a distinct cultural history focus alongside ancient landscape traces and the history of the pilgrimage route.

Castello di Calendasco is a trapezoidal brick fortification surrounded by a moat. While the paintings define the artistic connection at the church, the castle stands out for its architectural form and defensive character. The public section was open on special occasions; whether access is still available today is unclear. The other section is a private residence. If you are considering a visit, check in advance whether access is planned for your visit.

Outdoor activities along the Po embankments

Along the Po embankments in Calendasco, you can walk and run; the embankments are also suitable for longer bike rides. The options differ mainly by activity: walking trails are available alongside longer cycling routes. This comparison can help you decide how to spend your time by the Po without focusing your stay exclusively on historical themes.

Fiera del Po e del Pesce fritto

Another reason to visit is the traditional Fiera del Po e del Pesce fritto. It takes place in late March; the exact dates vary each year. If you would like to combine your visit with the festival, check the dates for the relevant edition before planning your trip.

Discover more destinations: Piacenza, Cadeo, Ottone, Agazzano, Gragnano Trebbiense, Lugagnano Val D’arda, Castelvetro Piacentino, Alseno

Return to the main travel overview: Piacenza.