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TOURISM >Itineraries and Birdwatching >Comacchio Town Centre | |||||||||||||
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TOURISM >Itineraries and Birdwatching >Comacchio Town Centre | |||||||||||||
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Comacchio Town Centre |
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Comacchio still presents its original features as a lagoon town, crossed and surrounded by water for most of its perimeter; in the past, it could be even reached only by boat. The story of the town has always been linked to the exploitation of the vast lagoons and salt pans surrounding it. Governed by the Chiesa family first and by the Este successively (1325), in 1598 it became part of the Holy See jurisdiction. The town architectural revival in the second half of the 17th century was enhanced by the hydraulic and architectural works commissioned by the Apostolic Camera. Among these, the Trepponti bridge has become the symbol of such flourishing period: linking the navigable canal "Pallotta" and the town, it is the departure point of all the canals forming the town "water road" network. Ponte Trepponti also represents a privileged observation point: from the bridge it is possible to see the low and coloured houses reflecting symmetrically in the canals, crossed by many brickwork bridges. The Coast The Comacchio littoral stretches for over 23 kilometres. Its seven sea-side resorts offer different ways to enjoy holidays close to nature: hotels, apartments and restaurants open the whole year round and well-integrated to the Park natural environment. Going from North to South along the coastline: Lido di Volano, Lido delle Nazioni, Lido di Pomposa, Lido degli Scacchi, Porto Garibaldi, Lido degli Estensi and Lido di Spina. Trepponti Bridge A monumental structure, made of Pietra d'Istria stone and terracotta, built in 1634 following a plan by the architect Luca Danese. It is characterised by three front- and two back staircases, and by two square-based towers in its rising part. Fish Market Built in 1600, it is one of the town's oldest buildings. On the inside, local fish products are sold on stone and marble stands. Museo del carico della nave romana In the town centre, it is possible to visit the section of the Museo delle Culture Umane nel Delta del Po dedicated to the Comacchio Roman Ship. This museum houses a rich collection of religious objects, work tools and the load found on board of the ship. The ship hull, which is currently being restored, is located in a pavilion adjoining the Museum. Ponte degli sbirri This terracotta bridge - by the architect Luca Danese from Ravenna - rises between Palazzo Bellini, the ancient prison (now seat of the town departments for Tourism and Education) and the former San Camillo Hospital. San Camillo Hospital Along Canale San Pietro and opposite Palazzo Bellini. Begun in 1778, the building presents a neoclassic facade. On its left side, it houses the Chiesa dello “Spatale” dedicated to Saint Peter. Palazzo Bellini This 19th century aristocratic residence houses the town Art Gallery, Library and Historical Archives. Loggia dei mercanti Former corn storehouse at the heart of the town, commissioned in 1621 by Cardinal Legato Giacomo Serra. Torre dell’orologio Built in the first half of the 19th century, this tower has an irregular octagonal plan and a basement in Pietra d'Istria stone. At its centre, a niche houses a statue of the B. V. della Presentazione, made of 16th century polychrome terracotta. Concattedrale di San Cassiano Built in the 17th century on the remains of the older cathedral dating back to 708. The gothic facade is characterised by rose brickwork and white Pietra d'Istria stone; inside, the nave is sided by 12 lateral chapels. The bell tower, rebuilt in 1866, still presents its original basement. Loggiato dei Cappuccini The Capuchin arcade, made of 142 arches, was built in 1647 to link the town centre to the Sanctuary of S. Maria in Aula Regia. Sanctuary of S. Maria in Aula Regia Known since the 12th century, it is located in the western part of the town. Next to it lies the Museo Mariano. Chiesa SS. Rosario This church, built in 1618, contains valuable works of art. Rione San Pietro This charming quarter still presents all the typical features of a town linked to water. |