Collazzone

Collazzone is a historic comune (municipality) located in the Province of Perugia within the Italian region of Umbria. Situated approximately 25 kilometers south of Perugia, its strategic position on a hilltop has shaped its development and significance throughout history.

Etymology and Origins

The settlement was formerly known as Colle di Azzone. Local tradition attributes its foundation and ownership to Attone (or Azzone), a powerful lord descended from Hildeprand of Spoleto, from whom the settlement derived its name. The origins of Collazzone are traditionally traced to the 8th century, with its foundation attributed to Azzone of the Atti family, acting on behalf of the dukes of Spoleto.

Historical Development

From the early 11th century, the original hill village saw gradual urban expansion, with satellite settlements forming around the initial nucleus. The 11th and 12th centuries were marked by the decline of the Lombard duchies, allowing for greater local autonomy and involvement in the conflicts between Guelph and Ghibelline factions. The castle endured repeated devastation, notably at the hands of Guglielmo dei Pazzi in 1218, 1220, and 1271. In 1250, Collazzone was sold to Todi and administered several castles. It faced destruction again in 1314 during the war between Perugia and Todi.

From 1332, Collazzone fell under the rule of the Baglioni family of Perugia, a period that lasted until 1647. Following the end of the Baglioni lordship, it was incorporated into the Papal administration. During the Napoleonic era, the territory was separated from Todi and placed within the administrative district of the Department of Trasimeno. By 1817, it was recognized as an autonomous municipality under the government and district of Todi.

Geography and Economy

Collazzone occupies the summit of a steep hill overlooking the Tiber River, providing extensive views of the surrounding countryside. The town center is encircled by high walls with a single entrance, once defended by outer works. A small fortress stands at the lower end of the town. The Tiber flows about 3 miles away, while the torrent Puglia runs closer. The climate is described as rather cold and prone to snow.

The local economy, particularly in the 19th century, was based on agriculture, with produce including grain, wine, oil, acorns, timber, and livestock.

Religion and Cultural Heritage

The archpriestal church of Madonna delle Grazie in Collazzone features five altars and an organ. An ancient convent of Franciscan nuns is also present, with the adjoining church of San Michele Arcangelo. The feast of San Lorenzo is celebrated annually on August 10th as a popular festival. In 1736, a statue of Hercules was discovered near the town, leading to speculation about ancient ruins belonging to a temple of that deity.

San Michele Arcangelo

The church of San Michele Arcangelo is located along Corso Vittorio Emanuele III, following the line of the ancient decumanus. It was annexed to the convent of the Poor Clares in 1370 and likely originated as the castle's earliest chapel. The entrance still bears a legible barbaric monogram of the Redemption, and 14th and 16th-century frescoes have been discovered on its walls.

San Lorenzo

The parish church of San Lorenzo was constructed between the 19th and 20th centuries on the site of the castle's former keep. Its façade is notable for a large rose window and terracotta decorations. Inside, it houses a 13th-century polychrome wooden sculpture of the Madonna and Child, considered a significant work of Umbrian art, along with 15th-century additions and a small 14th-century fresco of the Madonna and Child.

Abbey of San Lorenzo

The Benedictine abbey of San Lorenzo is situated on a hill known as San Giovanni. The complex originated as a Benedictine abbey and is documented from 1227. Evidence from its Romanesque crypt suggests construction dating to at least the 11th century. While its original layout is obscured by later alterations, the church is a simple three-nave structure. The Romanesque crypt, despite 17th-century modifications, retains its original plan and contains the tomb of Matilde Marzia, mother of Blessed Simone da Collazione.

Other Heritage Sites

Other significant sites include a Franciscan nunnery, a portal in Piazza Jacopone attributed to Giacomo Vignola, and the church of Santa Maria Assunta in Collepepe, which exhibits Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

Notable Figures

Collazzone is recognized as the birthplace of the Franciscan Blessed Simone in 1240. The poet Jacopone da Todi also died in the town. Among the principal families of the municipality were the Cascianelli and the Piergentili. In the locality of Collepepe, the Cavaliere Pier Domenico Costantini-Baldini was a notable figure, recorded as serving as Minister of Commerce and Industry in Rome in the mid-19th century.