Fumone
Welcome to Fumone!
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about a small Italian town, Fumone, located in the province of Frosinone, in the Lazio region. This hidden gem has a population of about 2,000 inhabitants and has a fascinating history.
Physical geography
Fumone has a unique geographical position, situated on a ring-shaped hill and surrounded by the Ernici and Lepini mountains. This cone-shaped hill is visible from far away and dominates the valley of the Sacco and the basin between Fiuggi and Alatri. The municipal territory has mountainous and hilly areas that slope down to become more plains-like. Inside the municipal territory is Lake Canterno, where you can also find the characteristic islets of the southern part of the lake.
Climate
According to the average data for the period 1961-1990, the climate of Fumone has a cool winter and a hot summer, with an average temperature for the coldest month, January, of +6.2°C and that of the warmest month, July, of +24.6°C. The average annual precipitation is abundant, around 950mm, with a peak in autumn and winter and a relative minimum in summer.
History of Fumone
Legend has it that Fumone dates back to the time of Tarquin the Proud (5th century BC), who would have taken refuge there after being driven out of Rome. However, what we know for certain is that the hill of Fumone played an important role in controlling the territory, being located between the three major centers of the people of the Ernici (Alatri, Anagni, Ferentino). During the Middle Ages, the hill of Fumone became fundamental for the safety of Rome, in times marked by Saracen and Norman incursions, collecting the smoke signals that signaled an impending danger and sending them to the Urbe. It is precisely thanks to this function that Fumone gets its name and the saying "When Fumone smokes, all the countryside and coast shakes."
In 1186 the Castle of Fumone had to defend itself from the siege of Henry VI of Swabia and managed to hold its own. In 1295 Pope Celestine V, who had resigned the pontificate, was imprisoned in the castle of Fumone because he wanted a simple life instead of a lavish and rich one like that of the Pope. Celestine V died on May 19, 1296, allegedly assassinated at the behest of Boniface VIII, his successor.
The Castle of Fumone
The Castle of Fumone is an important tourist attraction. Over the centuries, the castle has undergone numerous modifications and expansions and today has a square plan with four corner towers. Inside the castle are the Chapel of St. Michael the Archangel and the Bell Tower, from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the valley of the Sacco and the Lepini Mountains.
What to do in Fumone
Fumone offers numerous opportunities for nature and culture lovers. You can take walks on the trails of the Ernici and Lepini mountains or visit Lake Canterno. For history enthusiasts, in addition to the Castle of Fumone, you can visit the Church of Santa Maria ad Nives, the Church of San Giovanni Battista and the Chapel of the Crucifix. Furthermore, Fumone annually organizes numerous cultural and food and wine events, such as the Wine Festival and the Strawberry Festival.
Conclusion
Fumone is a fascinating place that offers so much to discover. Its unique geographical position and its rich history of events make it an interesting tourist destination. With numerous activities to do and attractions to visit, Fumone is the perfect destination to spend a vacation focused on culture, nature and good food.
