Lenola
Lenola: The Hidden Treasure in the Heart of Lazio
If you are looking for a peaceful place to spend your holidays, then you should consider Lenola, a small town in the heart of Lazio. With its only 4,084 inhabitants, Lenola is the ideal place for those who want to enjoy peace and tranquility away from the chaotic tourists.
Physical Geography
Located at 425 meters above sea level, Lenola is surrounded by the Ausoni and Aurunci Mountains, and boasts breathtaking views. Like a hidden gem in the Lazio region, Lenola is a treasure to be discovered. The city covers an area of 45.70 square kilometers and is easily accessible via State Road 637, which connects it to Frosinone.
Along the state road, in the past, "il cippo in pietra" was placed, a sign that distinguished the border between the Papal State and the Kingdom of Naples, of which Lenola was the last bastion. Even today, thanks to the location of Lenola, it is possible to have a view of the stunning scenery of mountains, hills, and plains with the lake, Salto di Fondi, the Tyrrhenian Sea, and the Pontine Islands.
Climate
The city of Lenola is renowned for its cool and dry climate, which makes it a preferred summer residence for the bishops of Fondi since the Middle Ages. Even today, the summer months see Lenola filled with tourists and residents from neighboring towns who want to enjoy the freshness and scenery.
History
Lenola has an ancient and fascinating history. In the Middle Ages, it was a fortified center called "Inola," "Inula," or "Enula." The city seems to have taken its name from the enula campana plant, which in Latin is called "Inula helenium".
In Roman times, the territory on which Lenola stands was part of the city of "Fundi" (Fondi), attributed to the Roman tribe "Aemilia". In this period, some funerary inscriptions and important archaeological finds were preserved in the plain of Ambrifi and in the locality "Fontana delle Strette," recently discovered by the historical and cultural association "Monti Ausoni".
In the Middle Ages, the first news of the city of Lenola dates back to 1072/1073 when the Duke of Fondi Littefredo donated it to the Abbey of Montecassino. In 1140 Lenola, together with the neighboring castles of Ambrifi and Acquaviva, became part of the County of Fondi, granted to the Dell'Aquila family. It was involved in the struggles between the Papacy and Frederick II, and in 1229, it was occupied by the papal army.
Culture and Traditions
Lenola also offers a wide range of cultural attractions and unique traditions. One of the most interesting things to discover is the Clock Tower, built on the remains of an ancient church. The tower serves as a bell tower and houses an astronomical clock that was installed in 1870.
The Church of Santa Maria Maggiore is another attraction to visit. Located in the center of the city, the church dates back to the Renaissance period and contains numerous works of art from the seventeenth century. The Church of San Giovanni Battista, located near the cemetery, dates back to the eighteenth century and has a particular decoration that is worth admiring.
Local Cuisine
Finally, one of the things that make Lenola a must-visit are its typical dishes, such as pizza di Pasqua, a type of sweet pizza that is prepared during Easter, and maritozzo, a sweet that is served with cream and generally for breakfast.
In conclusion, Lenola is a must-see for anyone looking for a peaceful and picturesque retreat in the heart of Lazio. From stunning views to fascinating history, culture, and traditions, to local cuisine, Lenola has so much to offer, and we are confident that every visitor will fall in love with it.
