Marta

Discovering Marta: a gem of the Alta Tuscia region

Hello friends! Today I want to talk to you about Marta, a small Italian village located in the province of Viterbo, in Lazio. Marta is a charming place, with a welcoming atmosphere and a climate that always makes you feel good.

Physical geography

Marta is located in the Alta Tuscia region, on the southern bank of Lake Bolsena. An ideal location to enjoy the natural landscape, surrounded by the Volsini mountain range. The village is situated at an altitude of 315 meters above sea level and the mountainous areas surrounding the village are partly used for agriculture, partly destined for woods. The climate of the area is generally temperate with often hot summers thanks to the constant breezes from the lake and sea and mild winters.

Marta: Pearl of Upper Tuscia amidst history, nature and tradition.

History

Marta was founded during the Etruscan period and its history has been troubled, passing from one domination to another and suffering the inevitable and painful traumas. Later it was possessed by the Orsini and Farnese families until it was included in the Duchy of Castro in 1537, established by Pope Paul III for his son Pierluigi, and remained there until its destruction in 1649 by the Pontifical troops of Pope Innocent X Pamphili. After the destruction, Marta was again under the jurisdiction of the Apostolic Chamber and remained in the possession of the Holy See until the unification of Italy.

Things to see in Marta

Marta is a small village but offers many attractions. The Sanctuary of the Madonna del Monte, located below the Mount of Marta is a place of great spirituality and inner elevation. Moreover, the island of Martana, located in Lake Bolsena, is an immense green oasis where you can take excursions and enjoy nature. The initial stretch of the river Marta is an enchanting place for pleasant walks in contact with nature.

Events and traditions

Marta is a village where an authentic atmosphere made of breathtaking landscapes and ancient traditions can be felt. Every year, the Feast of Saint John the Baptist, the patron saint of the village, takes place, where the historic center comes alive with music, dances, and performances. Moreover, since 1980, the Mazzamurelli Festival has been held, a celebration of one of the most beloved dishes of the Martana tradition: the legume soup.

Local cuisine

Marta's cuisine is linked to the local tradition and the products of the territory. Legume soup, taragna polenta, porchetta, and local wines are just some of the dishes you can enjoy in the restaurants of the village. Moreover, you cannot miss the exquisite lake eel, a precious dish with a unique flavor.

Conclusions

In conclusion, Marta is a gem of the Alta Tuscia region that deserves to be discovered, a place where nature and history blend into a unique experience, where beauty is everywhere, and the hospitality of its inhabitants will make you feel at home. We're waiting for you!

Andrea Fontana
Updated Tuesday, May 10, 2022