Palosco: History at the confluence of the Cherio and Oglio

Palosco developed on a rise at the confluence of the Cherio and Oglio. The two rivers and the surrounding marshes naturally protected the original settlement site. The riverside location is therefore just as much a part of the town’s history as its fortifications, traces of which have been preserved in the historic centre. Palosco is also one of the municipalities in Parco Oglio Nord.

Fortifications and local history

Traces of a medieval moat and three gates have been preserved in the historic centre. The fortified gates of Palosco are documented from 1179. Initially, there was the Porta Superiore to the north and the Porta Inferiore. The recorded names provide concrete points of reference in the history of the fortifications; the 12th-century record adds an early date to the description of the town centre.

Another historical landmark is the Torre di Enrico IV in Piazza Castello. Its ruins are about six metres high and made of river pebbles and hewn stone. The height is approximate; the materials named describe the structure specifically. The Castle of Palosco is a separate feature: a tower there is documented from 957. The foundations of its keep were discovered in 1927. Together, these details show different aspects of the town’s history: the recorded fortified gates, the described tower ruins and the historical record of the castle.

Churches and a sense of chronology

The religious buildings also reflect different periods. The parish church of Palosco is documented from the 12th century. In the Torre delle Passere complex stands S. Maria della Mercede, built by the Terzi nobles in the late 18th century. It was intended for the farmers of the Torre and was also to house the family tomb. The construction period, founding family and purpose are connected here, without implying anything about present-day uses.

The Cappella di Santa Maria della Visitazione is in a different setting: it is located on the upper terrace of the Oglio River. Together with the parish church and S. Maria della Mercede, it adds religious architectural history from different periods to the picture of Palosco. The chronology spans from the parish church, documented from the 12th century, to the construction of S. Maria della Mercede in the late 18th century; a tower at the castle is documented as early as 957.

Festivities and time outdoors

In August, Palosco celebrates the Sagra Patronale di San Lorenzo in honour of its patron saint. The festival brings together culture, music, spirituality and gastronomy. Its specific programme may vary from one edition to another. If you would like to plan your trip around the Sagra, check the dates and programme for that year’s edition in advance.

With a different focus, Parco Rilloglio complements the town’s historical attractions with children’s play equipment and a picnic area. If you are travelling with children, these are practical considerations for your plans. When choosing when to travel and what you are interested in, you can distinguish between the town’s history and architecture, the August festival and time in the park, without treating these different offerings as interchangeable.

Discover more destinations: Bianzano, Pontida, Montello, Selino Basso, Spinone Al Lago, Grassobbio, Ghisalba, Almenno San Bartolomeo.

Return to the broader travel overview: Bergamo.