Graffignano
Graffignano: A Lesser-Known Treasure of Lazio
If you're looking for a peaceful and charming destination, you should consider visiting Graffignano. Located in the province of Viterbo, Lazio, this small town boasts a population of just over 2000 inhabitants, but offers an authentic and enjoyable experience.
Physical Geography
Graffignano sits on a plateau overlooking the Tiber Valley, ranging from 60 to 400 meters above sea level. This region is a true green oasis, rich in untouched forests and flora and fauna.
The original ancient village sits atop a small hill and includes the Baglioni Castle and the famous Di Dentro, representing the typical scheme of Italian medieval villages built around a castle.
The climate is quite humid, with frequent Tramontana winds during the winter, but the beauty of the landscape more than makes up for it.
History
The history of Graffignano dates back to the Etruscan-Roman period, just like many other areas of Tuscia. The toponym itself of Graffignano (Carfinianum) suggests that the territory was owned by a Roman owner named Carfinius.
The first historical records report the submission of the Baglioni nobles of San Michele in Teverina Castle (now San Michele in Teverina) to the municipality of Viterbo in the second half of the 13th century. Later, the castle of Graffignano became a possession of Viterbo, which had to deal with warring conflicts with the city of Orvieto for territorial reasons.
The fifteenth and sixteenth centuries were characterized by continuing territorial disputes within the family, which were resolved only with the intervention of Pope Adrian VI, who confiscated the feud. In 1531, however, the possessions were returned by Pope Clement VII. In 1546, the dispute with the community of Civitella d'Agliano about the border territory, still called "La Litigata" today, was also resolved.
At the beginning of the seventeenth century, Countess Domitilla Cesi inherited the feud and made Graffignano a place of devotion to San Filippo Neri, creating the festival of the Virgin of Sorrows and the Company of the Seven Sorrows.
Later, the territories passed to the Borromeo family, who gave birth to eminent personalities such as Cardinal Federico Borromeo. In 1741, the feud was sold to the Roman Prince Scipione Santacroce, who repopulated it.
In 1809, the Napoleonic war brought Graffignano into the Department of Rome and reorganized the city so that it also included the territory of Sipicciano to form a single municipality.
Living in Graffignano
Graffignano is a peaceful and welcoming place to live. The town is well-equipped with schools and a small hospital, but nearby Viterbo can always be reached for daily needs. The surrounding countryside, marked by forests and lush green fields, is an ideal location for long walks, following paths that cross cultivated fields and follow watercourses.
The inhabitants of Graffignano are proud of their history and show the results through their comfortable restaurants and pubs, where you can taste the typical cuisine of the area, accompanied by delicious local wine.
Conclusions
Graffignano is a little-known treasure of Lazio, but no less important for it. Travellers seeking an authentic place to enjoy nature and tranquillity will not be disappointed by its beauty and the hospitality of its inhabitants. Come discover this hidden gem of Lazio.
