Poggio Nativo
Welcome to Poggio Nativo: a hilltop village with a millennia-old history
Poggio Nativo, also known as "Pugginaddìo" in local Sabine dialect, is a charming Italian town located in the province of Rieti, in Lazio. With its 2564 inhabitants living on a hilly territory rich in vegetation, the village preserves precious historical, artistic, and natural treasures.
Physical Geography
The village is located on a rocky spur at 455 meters above sea level on the southern slopes of the Sabine Mountains. This position, perched on the hill and surrounded by nature, offers breathtaking views and a suggestive atmosphere. The hilly terrain is typical of Sabina, with undulating hills and lush vegetation. The main crops are vineyards and olive groves, while the largest fields are dedicated to wheat.
The rougher areas are covered by shrubs, a characteristic element of the Sabine hills. The Farfa River runs through the municipality and represents an important resource for local fauna and flora.
Origins of the Name
The origin of the name "Podium de Donadei" (or "Podium Donadei") would derive from the name of Donadeo (or Donadio), a local landowner. However, there is no concrete documentation to identify the alleged Donadeo with certainty. According to another version, instead, the village was called "podium donum Dei," gift of God, for its elevated position that made it difficult to access and therefore favored defense against any barbarian invasions. Over the centuries, the name would have evolved from Latin to vulgar until becoming "Poggio Nativo."
History
The territory of Poggio Nativo was already inhabited during the Bronze Age, as evidenced by the ceramic finds found in the Battifratta caves, also used as tombs. In the Middle Ages, the village was a safe haven for the inhabitants of the countryside, protected by its elevated position. The possession of Podium Donadei passed subsequently to the Savelli family, under whose dominion the village was the protagonist of a historical episode narrated in the Commentarii of Pope Pius II.
Places of Interest
In Poggio Nativo, one breathes the air of the past in every alley of the village. You can admire the imposing medieval tower of San Giovanni Battista, the church of Santa Maria dell'Annunziata that houses frescoes of great artistic value, and the Senibaldi Palace, a typical noble residence of the fifteenth century.
The hilly terrain, rich in paths and woods, offers numerous opportunities for lovers of outdoor activities: on foot, by bike, or on horseback, you can explore the surroundings and discover small hidden treasures such as the chapel of San Rocco and the ancient stone washhouse.
Events and Traditions
Poggio Nativo is a place where culture and traditions are still very much alive. Among the most important events, we highlight the Fair of San Giovanni Battista, the patron saint of the village, which is held every year on June 24th. During the fair, there is a procession in which the statue of the saint is carried on the shoulders, followed by a parade of traditional costumes. The highlight of the festival is the offering of candles to San Giovanni Battista and the spectacular takeoff of a hot air balloon.
Cuisine and Typical Products
The Sabine cuisine is one of the most genuine and tasty in the Lazio region. In Poggio Nativo, you can taste delicacies such as porchetta alla sabina, bruschetta with new oil, and tasty legume soups.
Moreover, the territory is rich in typical products, including extra virgin olive oil, Sabina DOC wine, and sheep's cheese. There are numerous farms that offer tastings and guided tours to introduce visitors to these delicacies.
Conclusion
Poggio Nativo is a hilltop village surrounded by nature, where history, culture, and traditions harmoniously blend. An ideal place to admire the beauty of Lazio and savor the genuineness of Sabine cuisine. Come and discover the wonders of Pugginaddìo!
