Anagni
Let's discover Anagni together: the city of popes
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about Anagni, a beautiful city located in the province of Frosinone, in Lazio. Anagni is known as the "city of popes" because several popes were born and ruled here, including Pope Gregory IX, Pope Alexander IV and Pope Boniface VIII. It was also a long-time papal residence and seat. But Anagni is much more than that, so join me in exploring this wonderful town.
Physical geography
Anagni is located on a hill in the middle Latin valley, at about 424 meters above sea level. It is the second largest municipality in the province by extension, with its 113 km², and also one of the largest by population, with about 20,000 inhabitants. The municipal territory passes entirely through the Sacco Valley, from where it reaches its highest point with the 900 meters of Mount Porciano, touching the slopes of the Lepini Mountains. In the city's industrial district, there are numerous businesses and companies that represent one of Anagni's resources.
History
The history of Anagni is very interesting and reminds us of the importance and strategic position of the city throughout the centuries. According to legend, Anagni was founded by the god Saturn, together with four other cities in Lazio. During Roman domination, Anagni was governed by a Prefect and then became a Municipality. Later, during the struggles between Pope Alexander III and Frederick Barbarossa, the excommunication against the emperor and antipope Victor IV was pronounced in Anagni. Anagni was a free municipality and in the XIII century fell under the lordship of the Caetani, becoming a papal residence and counting about 50,000 inhabitants. Over the centuries, Anagni was the scene of clashes between different noble families, such as the Colonna, the king of France Philip IV, and Pope Boniface VIII who was made prisoner here and suffered the famous episode of the "slap of Anagni". After the return of the popes to Rome, the city underwent a strong decline and returned to counting about 2,700 inhabitants.
What to see in Anagni
Now that you know a little better about the history of Anagni, let's see what there is to visit in the city of popes! One of the main attractions is the Boniface VIII Palace, where the Pope lived for many years and where he suffered the aggression of Cardinal Colonna. The palace is located in Piazza Innocenzo III, another important square in the city. In the same square is the Cathedral of Santa Maria, rich in history and art. Inside is the crypt of San Magno or San Magno martyr, the patron saint of Anagni. Another church to visit is the Church of Santa Maria della Valle, located outside the historic center. The church is surrounded by a beautiful panorama and the "Sacco Valley". Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the "Macchia di Anagni," a nature reserve that extends for a few hundred hectares on a wild and suggestive territory.
Traditions and gastronomy
Anagni is also famous for its traditions and its cuisine. Every year several festivals are held, such as the Feast of Our Lady of the Valley, the Feast of San Magno, and the Feast of the Crucifix. During these festivities, you can taste typical dishes of Anagni's culinary tradition. Among the traditional dishes are the "Frittelle di San Giuseppe", the "Spaghetti alla Carbonara di Mare," and the "Pasta e Ceci." Let's not forget to mention the desserts, such as the famous "Spongata di Pasqua" and the "Pastarelle di Anagni." The cuisine of Anagni represents a true cultural and gastronomic heritage.
Conclusions
And so, friends, we have discovered Anagni together, a city rich in history, traditions, art, and gastronomy. The city of popes awaits you to show you its treasures and make you live a unique experience. I hope my story has made you fall in love with this beautiful town. Bye and see you next discovery!
