Marconi Square

Marconi Square is the oldest square in Castagnole created probably in the second half of the 16th century.
Located in front and just below the large parish church, it has been the center of the village's social life for centuries: until 1952 it hosted the weekly Thursday market (which has remained until today although moved to the lower village in San Bartolomeo) and the 'pallapugno' sport matches that were attended by large crowds.
With a bit of imagination it seems to see the square of yesteryear crowded with people also from neighboring towns to shop at the market, which in its most prosperous period numbered up to two hundred stalls. In addition to the vendors, there were also those who acted, sang and danced accompanied by mandolin, among the wares, carts and horses that also occupied the other adjoining streets of the village. Then on Sundays the versatile square would once again become crowded with the 'pallapugno' spectators (a team sport that is played with a ball), making access to the parish church and nearby stores difficult, which is why in 1855 it was decided to move the playing field to nearby Giovannone Square where the 'Leja viewpoint' is also located.
In 2015, near the historic 'Chiesa' pharmacy that corners the square, an original porch named 'Tristano and Isotta' was created, dedicated to the passionate romantic love of the two young people, accompanied by a sound motif that is activated every hour from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. a few minutes after the chimes of the parish church bells.