In the panorama of Italy’s industrial areas, there are some localities that stand out because of their history, the companies that inhabit them and their capacity for innovation. Among them, the municipality of Capriolo stands out as an example of manufacturing expertise. In this article, we will explore Capriolo’s history, its most significant companies, and how this small town has evolved into a major industrial center.
The history of Capriolo
Located in Lombardy, in the province of Brescia, Capriolo boasts a history rooted in antiquity. The first traces of settlement date back to Roman times, but it was during the Middle Ages that the locality began to develop, thanks to its strategic location along important trade routes.
Capriolo, a hamlet in the western foothills near the Oglio River, was a key bulwark in feudal struggles between Brescians and Bergamasks. During the rule of Filippo della Torre in 1256, Capriolo joined the Lombard Ghibellines in the battle against Charles I of France.
In 1268, the castle fell under siege by the Della Torre family. Later, Capriolo was part of the Palazzolo Quadra. In 1438, it was taken from the Venetians by Picinino, but recaptured in 1441. During the France-Spain-Impire War, it was occupied by Swiss troops.
In 1521, Prospero Colonna’s troops forced the inhabitants of Capriolo to take refuge in the mountains, but they did little damage. In 1529, the inhabitants rebelled against the imperial troops, hurling many soldiers into a ravine.
During Venetian rule, Capriolo enjoyed peace, despite epidemics and economic crises. The Brescian Jacobin Revolution and the Napoleonic period influenced the life of the commune. Under Austrian rule, an active bourgeoisie emerged, led by provost Luigi Minelli, who promoted the Catholic movement.
The landscape of Franciacorta
South Del Lago d’Iseo, Capriolo is nestled in a landscape of extraordinary beauty that belongs to the heart of Franciacorta. This region, world-famous for the production of high-quality sparkling wines, offers breathtaking views of verdant hillsides alternating with well-tended vineyards.
Thevineyards, neatly arranged in terraces, capture the eye with their variety of green hues, creating a mosaic of colors that changes with the seasons. The rows of vines, characterized by an almost artistic precision, create a spectacle of rare harmony.
Not only a treat for the eyes, but also for the palate, Franciacorta gives visitors the opportunity to taste fine wines, enriching the Capriolo experience with unforgettable flavors.
Traditional Brescian dishes
In addition to its industrial history and the enchanting landscape of Franciacorta, Capriolo and its surroundings offer a treasure trove of culinary experiences. Local cuisine is distinguished by its authenticity and richness of flavors.
Specialties of the province of Brescia include Casoncelli, a kind of ravioli stuffed with meat, spinach, and cheese, topped with melted butter, sage, and crispy bacon. This delicious dish is a real treat for the palate and a testament to the culinary art rooted in local tradition.
Also not to be forgotten is Manzo all’olio di Cervia, a preparation of beef cooked at a low temperature in extra-virgin olive oil, and the ever-present Panettone Bresciano, a variant of the famous Christmas cake that is distinguished by its fluffy texture and rich aroma of citrus fruits and raisins.
In addition, the province of Brescia boasts an extraordinary variety of cheeses, such as Taleggio and Bagòss. Accompanied by local honey or artisanal jams, these cheeses offer an unforgettable taste experience.
When talking about these delicacies, it is impossible not to mention the famous Franciacorta sparkling wine, the pride of the region. Its sophistication and unique bouquet are perfectly matched with local specialties, creating an extraordinary dining experience. However, it is important to do so with respect and awareness, recognizing the importance of this work of winemaking art in the culinary culture of Capriolo and the surrounding area.
The cuisine of Capriolo and the province of Brescia is an authentic celebration of the flavors of the earth, a testament to its inhabitants’ passion for good food and an invitation to discover the hidden delights of this fascinating region.
The industrialization of Capriolo
Since the 19th century, the art of metallurgy and metalworking has had deep roots in this area, contributing to the emergence of numerous handicraft businesses producing agricultural implements and tools.
However, the real turning point occurred during the 20th century, when Capriolo embraced industrial innovation.
The arrival of modern technologies and advanced production processes has prompted local companies to diversify their production and adopt increasingly high quality standards. This transition was crucial in consolidating Capriolo’s position as a major industrial center in the entire region.
Companies in the Capriolo industrial area
Among the most significant companies that have contributed to Capriolo’s industrial success is.
Ostilio Furniture
. When Ostilio Cesari and his wife, Pasqua Franzoni, opened their store in 1968 to sell furniture, they probably did not imagine that it would turn over the years into the perfect example of a successful family business.
The second generation, in fact, has been able to ferry the company into the new millennium by transforming it into an S.p.A., a national industry leader with a 5,000-square-meter exhibition space.
Matteo Nembri, a sixth-generation heir in local sericulture, now leads the
Nembri Silk
, a company with a long tradition in silk production around Lake Iseo. Founded in 1870, the Filanda di Iseo exploited the waters of the lake to produce silk of the highest quality.
In 1938, ownership passed to Pasquale Nembri, who innovated the business through the introduction of special technologies imported from Japan in the 1960s. After him, management passed to Gianluigi and then to his grandsons Giorgio and Andrea, who moved the company to Capriolo, focusing on twisting. In 2015, Matteo took the helm, renaming the company Nembri Silk, carrying on the family tradition for the sixth generation.
In the 1960s, in the Rubber Valley between Bergamo and Brescia, Vanni Oldrati founded Oldrati Guarnizioni Industriali, specializing in elastomer gaskets. After a fire in 1977, the company implemented integrated processes and diversified production. In the 1980s, a series of acquisitions began that completed the product range.
In 1991, the
Oldrati Group
with the entry of Vanni’s sons. The generational transition was successfully managed, leading to a solid management structure. In 2019, the company celebrated 55 years of history with Vanni as president, Manuel as Group CEO, Diego in charge of new technologies, and Devid Attilio in charge of sales.
The plurality of business sectors present helps shape a robust industrial landscape, characterized by a significant impact on employment and economic growth in the area.
Capriolo businesses: from the present to the future with ultra-broadband
Capriolo, a municipality steeped in history and charm, has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt to economic changes, culminating in the development of its own prominent Industrial and Handicraft Area.
Thanks to the presence of a nice variety of business entities, the municipality continues to grow, making a significant contribution to the country’s economic energy. The fusion of tradition, innovation and local resources makes Capriolo a successful example in the context of the Italian production system.
Soon, Capriolo’s innovation journey will reach another major milestone: its important industrial area will finally be integrated into the global network, thanks to the installation of a modern fiber optic infrastructure built by FibreConnect, in collaboration with ISP partner Ambrogio.
This new possibility will enable the excellent companies present to express their full productive potential, freeing themselves from the limitations of a slow and unreliable connection. Another step forward for Italy toward an increasingly connected and innovative future.