Canale Monterano

Canale Monterano: a bit of history and local culture

Hello friends, today I want to talk to you about Canale Monterano, a town located in the metropolitan city of Rome in Lazio. This village has a population of about 4,183 inhabitants and is considered a ghost town today. But don't be fooled by this definition, because Canale Monterano is a gem with much to offer both from a historical-cultural and environmental point of view.

Origin of the village

Canale Monterano has its origins in the 16th century as a nucleus of huts built by laborers and loggers from the regions of Tuscany and Umbria. Over time, it grew thanks to the arrival of inhabitants from the old town of Monterano, which was undergoing a gradual depopulation process. The village took shape over time with the construction of homes and shops along Corso della Repubblica.

Monterano Channel: History, Art and Nature in Lazio

A Bernini fountain

At the center of Piazza del Campo, there is an octagonal fountain created by the artist Bernini and coming from the ancient abandoned village. This fountain was transferred to Canale Monterano as a beautiful example of the artistic history of the area.

The town hall

The town hall of Canale Monterano, dating back to the early 1900s, overlooks the countryside and the Monti della Tolfa and houses numerous useful testimonies to reconstruct the history of the territory. In addition to Roman lapidary remains, it also houses the monumental sculpture depicting a lion attributed to Gian Lorenzo Bernini, originally placed on the fountain of Palazzo Altieri (family) in Monterano.

The geography of Canale Monterano

Territory

The municipality of Canale Monterano is located on the slopes of the Sabatini Mountains, west of Lake Bracciano. The territory of Canale Monterano preserves the geological characteristics of the tolfetano-sabatina area.

Climate

The climate of Canale Monterano is classified as zone D, 1952 GR / G.

Flora

The vegetation landscape of the surrounding area of ​​Canale Monterano is rich and varied thanks to the colchicum effect. The municipality preserves important plant species such as Fagus, Quercus ilex, Celtis australis, and Tamarix.

Conclusions

Canale Monterano is a fantastic city that historically has much to offer. The place offers a spectacular view of Lake Bracciano and the surrounding countryside. In addition, nature here is protected and preserved through the Monterano Natural Reserve. Here, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Monti della Tolfa. If you have been lucky enough to visit Canale Monterano, tell me about the places you preferred to visit. Or, if you haven't visited it yet, why aren't you already packing for your next trip?

Martina Moretti
Updated Monday, Apr 11, 2022