Monterotondo
Welcome to Monterotondo: an overview of the town
Welcome to Monterotondo, a commune in Lazio, Italy. This city was awarded the Silver Medal for Military Valor for the heroic resistance of its population during World War II. The town is located in a strategic position, along the path of two of the oldest consular roads of Lazio, the Via Nomentana and the Via Salaria, and is situated on a hill 165 m above sea level, overlooking the Tiber Valley. The area is characterized by lush countryside, rich in vineyards that produce some of the most prized wines in the region.
Physical Geography
Territory
The surrounding territory of the city stretches over the countryside of Eretina, which develops into a sort of green belt around Monterotondo. It is composed of the Macchia del Barco and the Macchia della Gattaceca, the countryside of Tor Mancina and Valle Ricca that in the past were a source of sustenance for the peasant population. Today the countryside is a tourist attraction for those who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the landscape.
Climate
The climate of the city is really favorable for the cultivation of vineyards, as the temperatures are ideal for the growth of grapes. Overall, Monterotondo has a Mediterranean climate, with hot and dry summers and mild winters.
History
Origins and Roman Age
The city of Monterotondo is said to have been founded on the emergence of an earlier settlement, the Sabine city-state of Eretum. However, no material evidence of the ancient city has been found. Eretum, in fact, was mentioned in Virgil's Aeneid as one of the disappeared cities of ancient Lazio that opposed Aeneas. Following the submission of the Sabine city-states to Rome, the importance of Eretum dwindled.
Middle Ages and Renaissance
The area of today's city of Monterotondo was inhabited in a more massive way from the tenth and eleventh centuries, when the medieval settlement originated. Monterotondo was for a long time a strategic point and an important bulwark of the defense of Rome. The city was first mentioned in a papal bull of the eleventh century, which referred to a possession of the monks of San Paolo of a "Campum Rotundum" near Grotta Marozza.
What to see in Monterotondo
If you visit Monterotondo, you can admire some of the architectural beauties of the town, such as the Church of San Rocco, the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, or the Church of San Giovanni Battista. Additionally, you can take a walk in the surrounding countryside, visiting the Macchia del Barco, the Macchia della Gattaceca, or the countryside of Tor Mancina.
Events and Traditions
Monterotondo is a city rich in traditions and events. One of the most important appointments is the Livestock Fair, which takes place every year in September and represents a moment of celebration for the whole town. During the fair, you can taste local culinary specialties, such as porchetta. In addition, the city celebrates the feast of Santa Barbara on the occasion of the city's patron saint, as well as several religious festivals throughout the year.
Conclusions
In summary, Monterotondo is a city that offers many attractions for tourists, including natural beauties, historical attractions, and cultural events. The city is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the area. Come and visit Monterotondo and discover everything this city has to offer!
