Luco dei Marsi
Luco dei Marsi: a town in the province of L'Aquila
If you are looking for a peaceful place immersed in nature, Luco dei Marsi might be the perfect destination for you. Located in the province of L'Aquila, this town has just under 6,000 inhabitants and is situated on the southwestern edge of the Fucino plain, near Mount La Ciocca.
Physical geography
Luco dei Marsi is surrounded by the natural beauty of Abruzzo, with its mountains and lush vegetation. To the west of the municipal territory, for example, stands the mountain range of Longagna, with the peaks of Romanella, Bello, Orbetta and La Ciocca, which separate the Fucine area from that of Valle Roveto. The altitude of the mountainous group ranges from 1777 to 1380 meters, while the difference in altitude in the municipal territory ranges from 652 of the Fucino plain to 1787 of Mount Alto.
Origin of the name
The name Luco dei Marsi derives from a toponym of the Mars language, "luvko", which means "clearing of the forest" or "sacred forest". The Latin word "lucus" has the same meaning and is linked to the cult of the deity of Angizia, present near the city-sanctuary of Lucus Angitiae. This Italic deity was very important in the pantheon of the Marsi, Peligni, and other Osco-Umbrian peoples, capable of healing with herbs and enchanting serpents.
The Roman municipality of Luco dei Marsi, known at the time as "Anxa," owes its name to the Italic deity of Angizia.
History
According to legend, the city-sanctuary of Lucus Angitiae was founded in this territory, near the sacred forest dedicated to the cult of Angizia. Archaeological excavations have confirmed the presence of the ancient city dating back to the 3rd century BC, located at the entrance of today's town. The base of the Italic temple and the statues found confirm the importance of the cult of Angizia in this area.
During the Social War, the city was attacked by the Roman army and at the end of the conflict, it was elevated to a municipality with the name of Anxa, carrying out municipal functions until the High Middle Ages. Traces of fortified centers are still found today in a rocky area of the locality of Petogna, near Strada 45 del Fucino, and on the summit of Mount Penna.
Luco dei Marsi today
Today, Luco dei Marsi is a peaceful and welcoming town situated in a strategic position to visit Abruzzo and its natural beauty. The town and its neighboring villages offer many outdoor activities, such as walks and hikes, as well as cultural and gastronomic events.
If you visit Luco dei Marsi, you cannot miss the Church of San Pietro and the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli, which houses some interesting works of art. Do not miss the opportunity to taste the local culinary specialties, such as typical Abruzzese arrosticini, pasta alla chitarra or local cheeses.
In conclusion, Luco dei Marsi is an ideal destination for those who want to spend a relaxing holiday immersed in nature, discovering the traditions and cuisine of Abruzzo.
