Rosennano’s first historical documentation is dated back to the 13th century. The first 12 houses, were registered in 1300 in the "Tavole delle Possessioni" (Documents of possessions), and back then the built up area was consistent enough to be considered a village provided with a tiny church: the "Eclesia Sancti Bartolomey de Rosennano". This little church was "ruled" by a bigger one in Montebenichi: the church of Santa Maria d’Altaserra. In the first decades of 19th century Rosennano’s population included 141 citizens, including the farmers that lived in more isolated nearby areas around the village.
In a cadastral survey, made approximately in this same period, show us that the urban arrangement is not too different from the one visible nowadays. The buildings are positioned along the one and only street that takes the visitors to the little ‘piazzetta’ in front of the square.
During the second postwar period Rosennano started depopulating. This was due to an increasing disinterest related to agricultural economy. Most of the lands that were made cultivable during the past centuries thanks to terrace systems were abandoned and the population disappeared together with their traditions and culture.
Rosennano’s southern area, almost entirely uninhabited for thirty years, was in a situation of intense decay. Now, this same area has recently been brought back to life thanks to an accurate project of reconstruction and refurbishment. As a consequence, these spaces, once dedicated to agricultural practices, are being turned into modern homes. This is what the “Balze di Rosennano” consists of, a group of holiday homes available to tourists, travellers and curious people who want to spend their free time immersed in the nature and silence of this magnificent place.
