Arlena di Castro
Welcome to Arlena di Castro!
Hello everyone! Today I want to tell you about Arlena di Castro, a small town in the province of Viterbo, located in the heart of the Monti Volsini in Lazio.
Physical geography
The territory of Arlena di Castro is mainly hilly and is located on the southwestern slope of the volcanic structure with altitudes ranging from 145 to 380 m above sea level. The town is crossed by some torrential streams such as the Fosso Infernetto, which flow into the Arrone river. The climate of Arlena di Castro is classified as zone D, 1883 GR/G.
History
Arlena di Castro has ancient historical roots, but was practically refounded in the second half of the 16th century, thanks to Cardinal Alessandro Farnese Junior. In fact, in 1573, some families from Allerona, near Orvieto, were settled in the town, granting them land and tax exemptions. Until 1649, Arlena di Castro followed the fortunes of the Duchy of Castro and was part of the Pontifical Province.
During the Tuscania earthquake of 1971, which went down in history as the Tuscania earthquake, the town of Arlena di Castro was hit by significant aftershocks. Following that event, the Italian Parliament passed law no. 1155 of 1971, exempting young people from the municipalities of Tuscania and Arlena di Castro from military service if they chose to participate as volunteers in the reconstruction of the two towns.
Monuments
Arlena di Castro boasts several historic monuments, including the Church of San Rocco, built of tuff and restored after the earthquake of 1971, and the Church of San Giovanni, frescoed and equipped with five altars. Attached to it is the Oratory of the Holy Sepulchre. In addition, it is possible to visit the Guidolotti Palace, a prestigious civil construction, the ruins of the Rocca di Castelvecchio and the medieval castle, on the Civitella hill, with remains of Etruscan tombs and potsherds.
For lovers of archaeology, it is interesting to visit the Necropolis of Ararella, once used as a municipal dump, where there are several pit tombs, originally covered with roof tiles. Furthermore, in 1982, the painted Etruscan tomb was discovered in the locality of La Piantata, which is particular because it still preserves the decorative red and black paintings on the ceiling.
Society
The population of Arlena di Castro is about 831 inhabitants. Over the years, the number of inhabitants has remained stable, as shown by the historical table of Istat on Local Units, intended as the number of active companies and employees.
Economy
The economy of Arlena di Castro is mainly based on agriculture, in particular on the cultivation of fruits and vegetables. During the summer season, it is possible to buy local products directly from the producers in the weekly market. In addition, there are some commercial activities such as bars and restaurants, where you can taste the typical dishes of the Lazio tradition.
Conclusions
If you are planning a trip to Lazio, Arlena di Castro is a town not to be missed. Despite its small size, the town offers several tourist attractions, including historic monuments, archaeological sites and unspoilt nature. Furthermore, the warmth and hospitality of the population make your stay even more pleasant. Come and visit us in Arlena di Castro, you will be welcome!
