Longiano (Lunzèn in Romagnolo) is an Italian municipality of 7,237 inhabitants in the province of Forlì-Cesena in Emilia-Romagna. This charming medieval village is a perfect mix of history, art and tradition of the territory, with a castle majestic and panoramas breathtaking.
Physical geography
Longiano is located at the beginning of the Cesena Apennine hills, at an altitude of 179 metres above sea level. Its location is strategic: it is about 12 km from Cesena and 31 km from Forlì, while about fifteen kilometres to the east are the beaches of the Romagna Riviera, with Cesenatico and Bellaria-Igea Marina among the main seaside resorts. It borders with Cesena, Gambettola, Gatteo, Savignano sul Rubicone, Santarcangelo di Romagna, Borghi, Roncofreddo and Montiano.
History
Le origins of Longiano date back to the Early Iron Age (9th-7th century BC), when people of the Villanovan culture began to settle in this area.
In the Middle Ages, Longiano's strategic position made it an important stronghold contested between Rimini and Cesena. The village was governed by the Malatesta from 1295 to 1463, until Pope Pius II took it away from Sigismondo Malatesta and handed it over to the Church. Longiano remained under the control of the Papal State until 1859, when it became part of the Kingdom of Italy. During the Second World War, the village suffered severe damage, but was liberated by the Allies on 10 October 1944.
What to do and what to see
Longiano is awarded the Orange flag of the Italian Touring Club for the quality of its tourist reception and the preservation of its heritage. The main monuments include:
- Malatesta Castle (13th century), beautifully preserved and recently restored.
- Petrella Theatrebuilt in 1876 and restored in 1986.
- Shrine of the Most Holy Crucifixa neoclassical building from the 18th century.
- Monastery of St Theonistusdating back to the 12th century.
- Italian Museum of Cast Ironwith two exhibition venues dedicated to cast iron lighting from different eras.
Walking through the village means immersing oneself in a medieval atmosphere, among cobbled alleys and enchanting views of the Romagna hills. In the surroundings, trekking and cycling routes allow you to explore the surrounding nature.
How to get there
Longiano is easy to reach by car: from Cesena it takes only 20 minutes along the SP123 south-west, while from Rimini it takes about 40 minutes along the A14 and the SP10. The village is also connected by bus from the main neighbouring towns.
Longiano represents a perfect combination of history, culture and breathtaking landscapes, making it an unmissable destination for those wishing to discover the authentic soul of Romagna.
