Gottano Sopra

A glimpse of paradise in the Apennines

In the municipality of Vetto, in the province of Reggio Emilia, there is a village that seems to be from another time: the hamlet of Gottano Sopra, among the most picturesque villages in the Tuscan-Romagna Apennines.

We recommend exploring the village, starting with its alleyways, which between vaults, walkways, portals and round stone arches, exude the ancient atmosphere of a site rich in history and fine buildings. The church, dedicated to the Saints Peter and Paul, is mentioned in a document of the Reggio Emilia Cathedral in 1213, and with its imposing bell tower stands in the area of the ancient Gottano fortress, incorporating some of its structures. Legend has it that a small treasure, the golden spindle of Matilda of Canossa, was buried when the castle was built, which is why locals call the church tower “Rocca d’oro”.

In Gottano Sopra you can discover the agrarian world at the Farming Civilisation Museum, created by Gianni Predieri in the courtyard of his home, bordering an old barn. Don’t miss the Oratory of the Madonna of Montalto, or the Blessed Virgin of the Ants, dating to the 17th century.