Gerano
Welcome to Gerano, the Lazio village on the Tufo hill
Are you ready to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and beauty of Gerano? This Italian municipality, located in the metropolitan city of Rome Capital in Lazio, has 1170 inhabitants and has been the seat of the union of the municipalities Valle del Giovenzano since 2001. Discover with us all the secrets and treasures that await you in Gerano.
Territory: a village on the Tufo hill
Gerano is located on a Tufo hill, at an altitude of 502 meters on the Ruffi Mountains. The panoramic view from the top is spectacular and offers a sight that will leave you breathless. Don't miss the opportunity to admire the splendor of the Lazio territory from the land of Gerano.
The Lazio village experienced a strong seismic shock on March 11, 2000, when a violent earthquake of 4.3 on the Richter scale with an epicenter in Rocca Canterano-Canterano hit it hard.
As for the climate, Gerano falls into zone E, with 2229 GR/G. However, until 2016, the municipality was classified in zone D, with 1898 GR/G.
History: origins and strategic role of Gerano
The year of Gerano's founding is unknown, but it is known that in 1005 it constituted a ''castrum''. In the Middle Ages, Gerano was the capital of the ''Massa Giovenzana'' and played an important strategic and economic role. Pope Gregory VII, in 1077, divided it between the diocese of Tivoli and the abbot of Subiaco.
Monuments and places of interest: the beauty of Gerano
Gerano is a treasure trove of religious, civil, and military architecture. Here are the most suggestive and fascinating places you will find in the village:
Religious architecture
- Church of Santa Maria Assunta (10th century): the church is located in the center of the village and is surrounded by an atmosphere of spirituality and mysticism. Its bell tower, 45 meters high, is equipped with four bells.
- Church of San Lorenzo (12th century): the church, located at the gates of the historic center, is located on the panoramic road that leads to Guadagnolo. Its bell tower, 27 meters high, houses a bell.
- Church of Saint Anatolia Virgin and Martyr (6th century): built in the locality of Collevecchio/Santa Anatolia, this church is the oldest testimony of the area. Over time, the church has been consolidated and expanded with interventions in the 16th century that have brought it to its current appearance. Today it is the most important religious center of the Union of the municipalities Valle del Giovenzano.
- Church of the SS.ma Annunziata (15th century): located along Via Roma, the church was rebuilt in the 16th century.
- Church of Sant'Anna (1773): this church, the smallest in the village, is located outside the historic center, near the Leo Fountain.
Military architecture
- Tower of Abbot Giovanni V (11th century): located in the upper part of the village, this tower was used for observation and defense purposes.
- Castellane walls with loopholes: built in the Middle Ages, the walls around Gerano guard a part of the village's history.
- Il Poggio, Medieval Fort, 1145: located southwest of the town, on a relief in the valley, this stronghold is now in ruins but is considered one of the most important in the region.
Civil architecture
- Palazzo Signorile (11th century): known as "Ju Palazzu" in Gerano dialect, it was the dwelling of the lords of the village and the seat of feudal justice.
- Palazzo di Corte (14th century): located in the upper part of the village, the palace was rebuilt in the 17th century.
Natural monuments and others
- Old Fountain: this fountain dates back to Roman times and is a testimony to the history of the village.
- Ciocio Fountain: built in the second half of the 2nd century AD, this fountain represents one of the most authentic symbols of the village.
- Leo Fountain: also dating back to the second half of the 2nd century AD, the fountain is known for the well fed by a source of pure water.
- Morra dei Briganti: located on the road to Collevecchio, this hill offers a breathtaking view of the Roman countryside.
- Ruins of Villula Romana (Muraglia): the traces of this ancient Roman villa allow archeology enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the culture of antiquity.
Society: the demographic evolution of Gerano
The first census of Gerano dates back to 1640, when the village had 656 inhabitants, distributed in 140 families. Over time, the population has grown steadily, up to the current 1170 units.
In conclusion, Gerano is a small pearl of tradition and history, immersed in the heart of the Lazio region. Treat yourself to a visit to discover the beauty of this village and its cultural, civil, and religious treasures, and appreciate its millennial culture. We are sure that Gerano will leave you with an unforgettable memory and enchant you with its timeless beauty.
