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Perched on a hill in the heart of the Oltrepò Pavese, Ruino is a charming village, immersed in an enchanting landscape of green woods and meadows. With its deep historical roots and well-preserved traditions, Ruino represents a true jewel of the region, capable of enchanting anyone who visits it.
The Parish Church
One of the focal points of the village is its parish church, a sacred building that houses a magnificent 17th-century carved wooden composition dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The sacristy, furnished with valuable 18th century furniture, offers further testimony to the artistic and cultural wealth of the village. The church is not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of the community, which gathers there to celebrate religious festivities and share moments of community life.
Torre degli Alberi and the Conti Dal Verme Castle
In the hamlet of Torre degli Alberi, stands the majestic castle of the Dal Verme counts, a living testimony to the area‘s noble history. Built in 1452, the castle is famous for horse breeding, an activity that the Dal Verme counts carried out with great passion. At the entrance to the castle, a funerary stele from the Roman era commemorates the wedding of Ottone Macedone and Pollia, highlighting the historical continuity of the place. The tower of the castle, made of stone and brick, is topped by a fine cordon, giving it a timeless elegance.
Montelungo and the Sanctuary of the Madonna
The hamlet of Montelungo is another place of great historical and religious significance. In Carolingian times, a sanctuary was built in honour of the Madonna, the site of a miracle that, according to tradition, saw the healing of a deaf-mute. In 1929, due to the perilous condition of the medieval church, it was decided to build a new church on a nearby hill. Completed in 1942, the new three-nave church houses a valuable 16th-century painting of the Madonna suckling the Child on the high altar. In 1963, a pretty little chapel was erected on the site of the ancient miracle and the medieval church, perpetuating the memory of this extraordinary event.
The Merger with Colli Verdi
In 2019, Ruino merged with the municipalities of Canevino and Valverde to form the new municipality of Colli Verdi. This merger marked a new chapter in the history of Ruino, bringing with it new opportunities for development and collaboration between the communities. However, the village of Ruino retains its identity and traditions, continuing to represent a precious heritage of the Oltrepò Pavese.
Conclusion
Ruino is a village that combines natural beauty, historical richness and cultural depth. Its churches, castles and breathtaking landscapes tell stories of a glorious past and a community tied to its roots. Even as part of the municipality of Colli Verdi, Ruino continues to live on in the hearts of those who know and love it, representing a jewel of the Oltrepò Pavese to be discovered and appreciated.
