Oltrepò, also known as Basso Mantovano, is the part of Mantua territory to the South of Po river. The proximity of Emilia Romagna influences dialect and mentality of Oltrepò inhabitants.
Oltrepò is extremely rich in agricultural production. Po river has always fertilized and often flooded it. Bankings made living here safer, but the river still commands respect.
Melons, pumpkins, pears, watermelons and onions are some of Oltrepò most appreciated agricultural produce. Pig and cattle farming is also very important.
Parmigiano Reggiano cheese is made here; Mantua is the only province where both Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano are made.
Oltrepò is a beautiful river landscape, full of protected areas, such as Ostiglia marshes, Busatello small flood valleys, Isola Boschina and Isola Boscone – two woody islands between Ostiglia and Carbonara di Po.
Still, there are many important monuments, such as Polirone Benedictine abbey - in San Benedetto Po – and the Romanesque parish in Pieve di Coriano.