Canterano
The town of Canterano and its geographic location
Hello everyone, today I want to talk to you about the small town of Canterano, located in the metropolitan city of Rome Capital, in Lazio. The town, which has only 358 inhabitants, is located in the Upper Aniene Valley, at the foot of the Simbruini Mountains. The coast upon which it lies is dominated by the Ruffi Mountains, characterized by the presence of olive trees and Mediterranean shrubland.
Canterano's climate belongs to zone E, with an average annual precipitation of 2328 GR/G. Despite being a small town, Canterano has a strategic position that makes it a reference point for those who want to visit the Upper Aniene Valley.
Origin of the name and its various hypotheses
The name Canterano has aroused various theories. Some claim that it derives from the name of a certain Camorrano baron who donated these lands to the bishop of Tivoli after losing a battle against Gerano. Others, instead, have Latin connotations and derive from the fund entrusted to church singers.
However, the most attractive hypothesis concerns the Pelasgic origins of the population that settled in these areas. Their founder, Kan, gave the name to the settlement which later became the Residence of Kan.
The history of Canterano
Lanciotti, in his book "The Fathers of Western Civilization", speaks of a Pelasgic origin for the settlement which finds comfort in the presence of remains of ancient polygonal walls. These were used by the Pelasgians, nomads from Mesopotamia, who settled on the Lazio coast up to the heights of Upper Aniene Valley. They were skilled in the art of defense and in the construction of settlements. Canterano could have been one of their first settlements, created to repel the attack of the Siculo population, the first to settle in this territory.
The Pelasgians were subjugated by the Equi, an Italic population that inhabited between Lake Fucino and the Upper Aniene Valley. Described as strong and formidable enemies, the Equi were defeated by the Romans in 458 BC under Cincinnatus and later by Camillus in 389 BC. Finally, they were subdued by Publius Sempronius Sofo in 304 BC.
What to see in Canterano
Despite being a small town, Canterano offers numerous attractions for those who would like to visit. Its historic center is characterized by stone buildings and an ancient tower, a symbol of the town, which was once used as a military outpost. Additionally, the Church of San Giovanni Battista dates back to the 16th century and is certainly worth a visit. Canterano also hosts an interesting Museum of Peasant Civilization, where you can admire the agricultural tools used in the past by the farmers of the area.
But one of the most significant attractions in Canterano is represented by the Tower of Marcantonio Colonna. This tower, located on a rocky spur overlooking the valley, was built by the famous architect Michelangelo Buonarroti for Marcantonio Colonna. The tower was originally another dwelling of the Colonna family but was later abandoned and used by shepherds as a refuge. Today, it is possible to visit it thanks to the cooperative that has committed itself to its restoration and museumization.
What to eat in Canterano
The traditional cuisine of Canterano is rich in typical dishes of the area. Among the first courses, we find pasta alla norcina or fried ravioli alla boschese. There are also soups, such as lentil soup with semolina gnocchi or chickpea soup with porcini mushrooms.
Among the second courses, there are Ariccia roasted pork, beef tagliata with baked potatoes, and a local specialty called "soldata". This is a dish made from beef cooked for a long time in the oven together with potatoes and onions.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Canterano is a small town that absolutely deserves a visit for those who want to discover the beauties of the Upper Aniene Valley. Rich in history and traditions, it offers numerous attractions, starting from its tower, a symbol of the town. Additionally, its traditional cuisine will delight food lovers. If you have the opportunity to pass through this area, don't miss the chance to discover Canterano and its territory.
