Poggio Bustone
Welcome to Poggio Bustone, the town of San Francesco, Lucio Battisti, and the porchetta!
Hello everyone! Today, I'll take you on a journey to discover Poggio Bustone, a small town in the heart of the Valle Santa. Here, on the slopes of Monte Rosato, we find numerous tourist attractions and much more.
Let's discover the physical geography of Poggio Bustone
The territory
Poggio Bustone is located in the province of Rieti, in Lazio, and is home to around 1960 people. The town extends on the side of Monte Rosato, on a hill about 350 meters high compared to the valley floor, on the western slopes of the Monte Terminillo massif. The territory of Poggio Bustone is part of the Piana Reatina, also known as Valle Santa because it is home to four Franciscan sanctuaries, one of which is located in Poggio Bustone.
The climate
The city is classified as zone E, with 2741 GR/G.
Origins of the name
The name Poggio Bustone comes from the Latin "podium" and a medieval personal name "Busto". In the past, the town was also called "Podio Bistonis" (1299-1302).
The history of Poggio Bustone
The origins of Poggio Bustone date back to the 12th century, but the first document attesting to its existence was written during the Norman reign. In 1208, St. Francis of Assisi and his first six companions arrived in the town to preach. In 1298, an earthquake struck the Reatine Valley, completely destroying Poggio Bustone and causing the death of 150 inhabitants.
Since 1817, Poggio Bustone became the seat of a governorate that included the municipalities of Labro, Morro Reatino, and Rivodutri, in the Papal States, bordering with the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. During World War II, Poggio Bustone was invaded by Nazi-fascist troops who brought death and destruction. For the courage shown by the population, the Municipality was awarded the silver medal for military valor.
Monuments and places of interest
Poggio Bustone is a place rich in history and culture.
Religious places
The Sanctuary of Poggio Bustone, founded by St. Francis of Assisi, is one of the main attractions of the town. Here, you can admire numerous frescoes by renowned artists and pray in the beautiful Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli, located inside the Sanctuary.
The Church of San Giovanni Battista is the main church of the historic center. Made in neoclassical style, it has a very particular façade.
Other places of interest
The old town of Poggio Bustone has a very characteristic structure and, in many respects, resembles that of medieval towns. Here, you can find narrow and rustic streets and staircases that turn into mountain paths.
The porchetta of Poggio Bustone
We couldn't forget about the porchetta, a symbol of the Reatine gastronomy. Porchetta is a typical pork meat specialty of central Italy, but Poggio Bustone is famous for its porchetta with a unique taste. If you come to visit the town, you absolutely cannot miss the opportunity to taste this delicacy.
In conclusion
I hope this short virtual journey to Poggio Bustone has piqued your curiosity. The town offers many places of interest and a very rich history. If you pass by, stop for a while and enjoy the atmosphere of this town full of surprises.
