Discover Tossignano: History, Trails and Local Traditions

The Rocca di Tossignano was built in 1256: the people of Bologna erected it on the remains of earlier fortifications. In 1537–1538, the complex was finally destroyed on the orders of Pope Paul III Farnese. Today, you can reach the Rocca on foot via Via Don Angelo Bughetti or from the main square. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Vena del Gesso and the Santerno Valley.

Another prominent landscape feature is the Riva di San Biagio. The imposing rock face lies on the southern slope of the Vena del Gesso Romagnola between the Sella di Ca' Budrio and Tossignano Alta. It is clearly visible from the hill with the Rocca ruins located above Tossignano Alta. This allows you to take in historical references to the town and the characteristic rocky landscape together as you find your bearings.

Trails for Different Day Plans

Several well-known routes run through the landscape around Tossignano. CAI Trail 705 passes the Riva di San Biagio; its 705b variant reaches its summit at Passo della Prè. In addition, the 16th stage of the Alta Via dei Parchi runs almost entirely along the ridge of the Vena del Gesso. These routes particularly appeal to travelers who enjoy dividing their days between local history, views and longer stretches of trail.

The 12th stage of the Cammino di Sant'Antonio begins in Tossignano and leads 22 km to Parco Naturale del Carnè. An additional 4 km brings you as far as Brisighella. The stage passes through the Vena del Gesso Romagnola park and reaches Rifugio Ca' Carnè via the White Road of Monte Mauro. The different distances give you a concrete basis when planning your hike according to the time available and the desired stage length.

Parco di San Mamante has a circular trail with a viewpoint overlooking the Gola del Tramosasso. The route follows Trail AI 705 to Casetto di Sansone and then returns to Piazza Andrea Costa via Via Castiglione and Vicolo Saldoni. This means that a circular route returning to the starting point is also among the documented options in Tossignano.

Church, Ancient Entrance and Festival Tradition

The history of the town also includes the church of San Girolamo in Tossignano. It is dedicated to Saint Jerome, was initially built as an oratory, later extended lengthwise and converted into a church. An ancient selenite quarry is still preserved near the upper part of the town. Porta Raimondi is an ancient entrance to Tossignano and complements the town's historical points of interest.

The Festa della Polenta also reflects a long-standing local tradition. It has been celebrated in Tossignano since February 1, 1622, with the exception of the years 1942 to 1945. If you would like to combine culture, landscape and regional history during your stay in Italy, Tossignano therefore offers a wide range of thematic perspectives: from Piazza Andrea Costa and the Rocca to rock faces, ridge trails and a festival tradition handed down over centuries.

Discover More Destinations

For further travel planning, you can also include Santa Viola, Budrio, Sasso Marconi, Borgo Tossignano, Anzola Dell'emilia, Gaggio Montano, Granarolo Dell'emilia and Monghidoro .

For the overarching travel overview: Bologna.