Hidden in the folds of the Oltrepò Pavese heights lies Menconico, a mountain jewel rich in history, tradition and scenic beauty. With its ancient cobbled streets, medieval buildings and traditional cuisine, this small village enchants visitors with its timeless charm.
History and Nobility
The history of Menconico is intimately intertwined with that of the local noble families, in particular the Malaspina, one of the most influential families of the Middle Ages. Founded as far back as 1164, Menconico was for a long time an integral part of the Malaspina Marquisate. Over the centuries, the family divided into various branches, with Menconico being assigned to the Spino Fiorito branch and later to the Malaspina di Varzi branch.
After the dismemberment of the fief of Varzi, Menconico passed into the hands of Pietrino Dal Verme in the 15th century, thus forming the so-called ‘terziere di Menconico‘. Later, the municipality was granted as a feud to the Sforza family of S. Fiora, leaving tangible traces of their presence in the region.
Art and Architecture
The village of Menconico is a fascinating treasure chest of history, with its winding streets and stone houses that still retain the charm of medieval architecture. Dominating the landscape is the majestic Parish Church of San Giorgio, a sacred building dating back to 1136, whose bell tower stands proud against the sky.
Beneath the church, an ancient stone gallery preserves the secrets of the past, once an integral part of the road that connected Menconico to Monte Penice. Today, this gallery houses the ‘Museum of Mountain Farming and Local Traditions‘, which offers visitors a fascinating journey back in time through objects, tools and evidence of rural life in the past.
Gastronomy and Traditions
But Menconico is not only history and architecture, it is also renowned for its rich food and wine tradition. Its forests are a veritable treasure trove of delicacies, particularly truffles, whose aroma envelops the air during harvest seasons, attracting connoisseurs from all corners of the globe.
Among the local culinary specialities are truffle dishes, such as the classic tagliatella or scrambled eggs, accompanied by a good glass of Oltrepò Pavese wine, an oenological excellence that completes the gastronomic experience of Menconico.
Hidden Treasures and the Future
One of Menconico‘s most precious treasures is the Spalla Mill, a symbol of ancient rural art that stands on the bank of the Aronchio stream. Built in the first half of the 19th century, this water-powered mill played a fundamental role in the processing of cereals and local livestock, a tangible testimony to rural life in the past.
Today, the Spalla Mill is destined to become a museum that keeps the memory of these ancient traditions alive, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of agriculture and cereal processing.
In conclusion, Menconico presents itself as an enchanted place, where history, culture, tradition and nature blend harmoniously to offer a unique and unforgettable experience to its visitors. With its authenticity and timeless charm, this small mountain hamlet continues to be a true hidden treasure of the Oltrepò Pavese Highlands.
