Castelnuovo di Porto
Beautiful Castelnuovo di Porto: An Ancient City with a Modern Heart
Castelnuovo di Porto, a town in the province of Rome, has a lot to offer its residents and visitors from other Italian cities. The town, which now has around 8,773 inhabitants, was founded on ancient ruins dating back to the time of the ancient city-state of Capena.
Physical Geography
The town extends from the alluvial plain of the Tiber Valley to the Tufo hills to the west, with elevations reaching 200 meters above sea level. The town is characterized by diverse landscapes, with narrow gorges on the Tufo reliefs and an alluvial plain, which give the city a unique charm.
Climate
Castelnuovo di Porto is classified as zone D according to the Italian Climatic Classification, with a temperature range that varies from 2°C in the winter to 26°C in the summer. The average annual rainfall is around 1753 GR/G.
The Capenate Era
The city was founded on the ancient territory of the Capenate era, which hosted the prosperous Italic population of the Capenati. The Capenate territory extended along the right bank of the Tiber, bordering the Falisci to the north, the Tiber and the Sabines to the east, and the territory of the Etruscans of Veio to the southwest.
The Roman Era
Little is known about the Roman era, but archaeological finds on the territory suggest the existence of an ancient colony of Pentapoli.
The Varied Fortunes of the Castle
The Castle of Castelnuovo di Porto has been the focal point of the town throughout its history. The construction of the Castle was the subject of continuous battles, to the point where the Castle changed hands several times. The Castle was owned by Stefano di Teobaldo, but returned to its rightful owners, the Colonna, by Pope Innocent III. Over the years, the Castle was confiscated by various pontiffs, including Pope Alexander VI Borgia, but ultimately returned to the Colonna family in 1477. In 1518, it became the property of the Di Francesco family.
The Beauty of Modern City
Today, Castelnuovo di Porto is a modern and lively town, full of life, activities, and opportunities for visitors. Life here revolves around breathtaking nature, ancient history, and vibrant Italian culture. The town has renovated its streets, opened museums, developed recreational activities, and created a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.
Activities and Places of Interest
There are many sites that visitors should see in Castelnuovo di Porto. Art enthusiasts can visit the ancient frescoes of the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Nature lovers may wish to visit Nerola Park or the nearby Bracciano, Martignano, and Vico Lakes Park. For those looking to explore the history of the area, there are numerous archaeological sites on the territories of Castelnuovo di Porto, Civitella San Paolo, Morlupo, and Rignano Flaminio that extend throughout the territory of the ancient city-state of Capena.
Conclusions
In summary, Castelnuovo di Porto is an ancient and fascinating town that combines Roman history with the roots of Italic life. Today, the town is a modern tourist destination with a cultural and thematic offer that satisfies the most demanding visitors. The landmarks of this historical and beautiful city will make your next visit to the outskirts of Rome even more exciting and unforgettable.
