San Bartolomeo: Forests, Trails and History

San Bartolomeo can be explored for trip planning through two main themes: the history of its churches and residences, and its protected forests and trails. If you are looking for a hotel in San Bartolomeo, these themes can help you decide what you would like to focus on during your stay. Churches and historic residences reflect the area’s history; the protected area and nature trails along the Rio Coviola connect you with the landscape.

Forests and biodiversity

The “Boschi del Rio Coviola e Villa Anna” ecological reserve is protected by the Emilia-Romagna region. Within the protected area, the Bosco di Villa Anna is the most valuable biotope. The Bosco di Rio Coviola is of particular botanical interest because of the number, variety and significance of its plant species. The Bosco di Rio Coviola and the Bosco di Cà Bertacchi are also noteworthy: both are remnants of oak forests and lie at the lowest elevation in the province of Reggio Emilia.

The Bosco del Rio Coviola is home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species, mustelids and small mammals. Individual animal sightings may vary depending on the season. In addition to its botanical significance, the forest is also a place to observe wildlife, although sightings may differ throughout the year.

Churches, residences and local history

The parish church of San Bartolomeo was consecrated in 1151 and was under the authority of the Marola monastery. A papal bull issued by Pope Celestine III in 1192 mentions the church. Another church, dedicated to Saint Vigilius, is mentioned in a papal bull issued by Pope Lucius III in 1154; the document gives its distance from the parish church as 600 paces. This sequence distinguishes the consecration of the parish church from later references to two churches in papal bulls.

The residences also reflect different architectural styles. Villa Anna is an eclectic Neo-Renaissance residence. The Casinazzo is a grand residence of architectural significance; it is believed to date from the 15th century. The former castle of Sassoforte no longer exists. Its site was probably near present-day Villa Anna, between the Rio Coviola and the Rio Quaresimo. The archaeological heritage also includes the Castellazzo di San Bartolomeo, which Don Gaetano Chierici researched.

Walking and cycling routes

As part of the Cintura verde, nature trails run along the Rio Coviola and through its forest, with connections to the Quaresimo and Modolena streams. There are also walking and cycling connections in the built-up area of San Bartolomeo and in the public parks.

The “Reggio-Cavriago in bici” cycle route follows Via Nemo Sottili and Via Quaresimo to the center of San Bartolomeo. It continues over the Rio Moreno to the village of Ghiarda and the Torrente Modolena. A playground lies along the route near the old church. The two types of route offer different ways to explore the area: the Cintura verde focuses on nature trails and connections along waterways, while the cycle route follows a specific path via named streets and other waypoints.

Discover more destinations: San Martino In Rio, Salvaterra, Toano, Brescello, Tabiano, Poviglio, Correggio, Canossa.

For the broader travel overview: Reggio Emilia.