Il distretto plebano di Santa Maria di Campiliola, Castelnovo ne' Monti, tra XI e XII secolo

The parish church of Santa Maria Assunta di Campiliola or Bismantova in Castelnovo ne’ Monti (RE) represents a significant case study in the Emilian Apennine, as many documents from its archives have been preserved, allowing for a detailed reconstruction of its history. The parish exercised control over a vast portion of the Reggio Emilia Apennines through its subordinate chapels, making it a crucial center of territorial authority. Evidence of this can be seen in the appointment of Frogerio, a prominent figure in the Matildic entourage, as head of the parish during the late 11th century conflict between the Papacy and the Empire. In addition to serving as the archpriest of Campiliola, Frogerio also held the position of chaplain to Matilda of Canossa between 1100 and 1107, thereby authoring numerous documents on behalf of the countess.