Olona river

The Olona river is located in northern Italy. Its springs are in the Lombardy region, specifically in the province of Varese. The river is approximately 65 km long. The Olona River is considered to be one of the most important rivers in Lombardy. It has been used for as a source of drinking water for the surrounding communities, for irrigation and also for industrial uses so that nowadays it is one of the most polluted rivers in the region. 

The name "Olona" has Celtic origin and is believed to mean "big river" from the Celtic word “ol” or maybe “or”. The river’s springs are near “Sacro Monte” in Varese and originally, from Celtic time to the Middle Ages, it reached Milan where it was used to fill the moat and protect the city walls. The water was also used for the city's river port (today's Darsena).  

The river flows through several towns and cities, including Varese, Gallarate, and Legnano, before reaching Milan. However, with the increasing industrial runoffs the water of the river was no longer used and its path changed to reach the Po river.  

The Olona River is also an important recreational area for fishing, canoeing and kayaking.