Sant'angelo In Theodice
A trip to Sant'Angelo in Theodice
Sant'Angelo in Theodice is a small hamlet located in Cassino, in the province of Frosinone, in southern Lazio. If you're looking for a peaceful destination to relax, this place is perfect for you, with its historic center rebuilt in the 1950s and situated on a hill mainly made up of tuff, surrounded by the Gari River.
History of Sant'Angelo in Theodice
The history of Sant'Angelo in Theodice dates back to the early Middle Ages, when the Janula fortress, the "castrum" of Sant'Angelo in Theodice, and the tower of San Giorgio a Liri were built without the emperor's or Capuan princes' authorization. The Prince of Capua decided to approve these fortifications in 967, authorizing the Benedictines to build as many fortifications as necessary for the protection of their territory. In the following period, the "castrum" became the fundamental element of control and administration of the territory.
An exemplary document regarding the foundation of Sant'Angelo, the first "castrum" of Monte Cassino, attests that 34 families settled in the locality "at Teudice," around the church of St. Michael the Archangel. Each family received a plot inside the expected walls, on which to build, and one outside, to cultivate. The families of the settlers with the "commenditi," the employees, had the right of residence in the "castrum" and the duty to "repair the fortress" under the guidance of the "magistri fabricatores" sent by the Abbot.
Sant'Angelo in Theodice was also an autonomous municipality for a long time, reunited with Cassino in 1860 by decree n°36 of the then King of the Two Sicilies, Francesco II of the Two Sicilies. At that time, Cassino had about 8,000 inhabitants, while Sant'Angelo had 3,000.
What to see in Sant'Angelo in Theodice
Visit the historic center of Sant'Angelo in Theodice, rebuilt in the immediate post-war period, and discover its cobbled streets, tuff walls, and small stone houses that make it up. In addition, don't miss the church of St. Michael the Archangel, where the 34 families who founded the "castrum" in the Middle Ages stopped.
Take a walk along the Gari River, which flows downhill from the hill of Sant'Angelo, and enjoy the view of the surrounding nature. Moreover, you can take a bike or hiking excursion to the nearby Montecassino, a famous abbey that offers a breathtaking panorama of the valley.
You can also visit the tower of San Giorgio a Liri, another of the fortifications built to protect the territory of Sant'Angelo in Theodice. The tower is a few kilometers away and is an interesting place to explore.
Local cuisine
If you are a lover of good food, Sant'Angelo in Theodice is the perfect place for you. Try the typical dishes of the local culinary tradition, such as "pasta e fagioli," "paccheri alla genovese," "cipollata," "porchetta," and "ciambellone ciociaro." In addition, you can enjoy a glass of local wine, such as Cesanese del Piglio or Cannellino di Frascati.
Conclusion
Sant'Angelo in Theodice is an ideal destination for a day trip, just a few kilometers from Cassino. Discover its history, visit the historic center, and enjoy the surrounding nature. Don't miss the traditional dishes and local specialties, as they represent another reason to appreciate this place. If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, Sant'Angelo in Theodice is waiting to offer you the relaxation you deserve.
