Cologna Veneta is a village strategically placed on the border between the provinces of Vicenza, Padova and Verona. Cologna, already inhabited in prehistoric times, became a place of importance during the Lombard period, between the 6th and 8th centuries, when it was partially fortified to protect the surrounding area.
In the new millennium and under Maltraversi rule, a wall was built around Cologna and was further strengthened during Scaliger and Visconti rule. The castle is an example of these late medieval architectural transformations, today only a mighty tower remains beside the Cathedral.

After a short period of political disorder, the area was conquered during the 15th century by the Republic of Venice, which allowed for the town to experience a long period of economic prosperity, something which is reflected in the embellishment of the town's buildings and its expansion. The wall was also redesigned by adding new defensive mechanisms so as to protect the town. It is during this time of prosperity that the Torre Civica (belfry) was built, which can still be visited today.
With the fall of Venice at the end of the 18th century, Cologna experienced a long period of redefining its identity. In the following centuries Cologna increased its ancient agricultural activity, so much so that the wall became a symbolic border, rather than a defense fortification, between the commercial town and the surrounding suburbs.

Info: www.comune.cologna-veneta.vr.it