Bizzozero
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Bizzozero
Biggioeugiar | |
|---|---|
Frazione | |
 The Tower of Bizzozero | |
 Interactive map of Bizzozero | |
| Population (1994) | |
• Total | 3,511 |
| Demonym(s) | Bizzozerese (singular), Bizzozeresi (plural) |
Bizzozero (Biggioeugiar in the Varesino dialect), is a frazione of the comune of Varese, Lombardy, Italy. It was an independent comune until 1927, when it became a frazione of Varese, after it was nominated ‘Capoluogo’ of the Province of Varese.[1]
The name Bizzozero comes from the medieval noble family of the same name, originally from Valle Olona, and ruled Bizzozero during the medieval period. The family's castle is still present today.[2]
History
Prehistoric Era
A prehistoric tomb, found in 1881 in Bizzozero, dated from the 3rd century BC, indicated the presence of the Insubres, a population of Celtic origin, who resided in the area.[3] The tomb contained various pieces of jewellery, such as bracelets, and a jar. The presence of the Insubres was confirmed after more stone tombs were found. [4]
Roman Era
In the 2nd century BC, after the conquest of Varese by the Romans, a settlement was established in Bizzozero. In the 18th century, a series of tombs were found by Nicolò Sormanni, prefect of the Biblioteca Ambrosiana of Milan.[5] The Roman presence in Bizzozero can be confirmed with a series of roads, still existent today, passing by the Church of Santo Stefano.[6]
Medieval and Contemporary Era
The first documents mentioning Bizzozero date from the 10th century, and between the 8th and 11th centuries, the Church of Santo Stefano was constructed. The church, which was renovated in 1975, is now a national monument.[6] In the 16th Century, parts of the Bizzozero Castle were constructed, including the tower, with further renovations made in the 18th Century.[7] The church of Bizzozero, dedicated to Saints Evasius and Stephen was constructed in the 15th century, and subsequently reconstructed at the end of the 17th century, and renovated in 1911.[8] By 1859, Bizzozero had a population of 813, and in 1865, Bizzozero’s first mayor was elected.[1] On 24 November 1927, Bizzozero became a frazione of the Comune of Varese, with a population of 1,537.[1] From 1907 to 1950, Bizzozero served as a stop in the tramline of Varese.[9]
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