San Benedetto dei Marsi
Welcome to San Benedetto dei Marsi!
Hello everyone, today I will talk to you about San Benedetto dei Marsi, a beautiful Italian municipality located in Abruzzo. With its 3,758 inhabitants, San Benedetto is a young town with a very ancient history dating back to the times of the Marsican civilization. Join me in discovering this city!
Physical Geography
San Benedetto is located on the eastern edge of the plain of Fucino, at an altitude of 678 meters. It is the flattest municipality in the Marsica, with a range of just 50 meters. It borders Aielli, Cerchio, Collarmele, Pescina, Trasacco, and the municipal territory of Celano.
History
Origins
The ancient city of Marruvio, located in contemporary San Benedetto dei Marsi, was the capital of the Marsi during pre-Roman Italy and the Roman Empire. The city was located on the shores of Lake Fucino and was about 20 kilometers from Alba Fucens. During the Roman Empire, Marruvio was recognized as a flourishing Municipality, mentioned by historians like Strabo and Pliny the Elder.
From the ancient Marruvian center, some parts of the walls and the amphitheater remain along with several artifacts such as inscriptions and statues. Following some maintenance excavations, the remains of a Roman-era domus were found, brought to light by subsequent archaeological digs. In the Morroni, stone funeral monuments, and in the façade of the former Church of Santa Sabina, elements of early Christian architecture can still be admired.
Middle Ages
San Benedetto dei Marsi, also known as Marsia or città della Via Tiburtina Valeria, was the capital of the local gastaldato Longobardi included in the duchy of Spoleto during this period. During this time, Pope Boniface IV was born in San Benedetto, while Berardo dei Marsi died there on November 3, 1130.
The earthquake and reconstruction
The Marsica earthquake of 1915 caused serious damage to the city, destroying most of the homes and historic buildings. This event led to the reconstruction of the city over the course of the twentieth century, giving way to today's urban nucleus, which recently achieved the rank of "Titolo di città" in Italy.
Hospitality in San Benedetto dei Marsi
Despite its small size, San Benedetto dei Marsi offers many opportunities for historical and cultural tourism. The city has a rich historical and artistic heritage ranging from the ruins of Marruvio to medieval churches.
But it is not only this that makes San Benedetto an excellent tourist destination. The city also offers many natural attractions such as Lake San Domenico, where one can fish and relax, or the Velino-Sirente Park where many hikes can be taken.
Furthermore, San Benedetto is famous for its local products including sheep cheese, Macchia ham, sausage, and pecorino wine. The hospitality of its people is warm and welcoming, making the stay even more enjoyable.
Conclusions
San Benedetto dei Marsi is a city that has much to offer, from art and history to natural surroundings and culinary delights. This city was rebuilt after the earthquake of 1915 and was recognized as "Titolo di città" in Italy in 2022. Its hospitality and scenic beauty make it a noteworthy tourist destination, and the experience of visiting this city will be unforgettable. Come and visit San Benedetto dei Marsi and let yourself be surprised by its timeless beauty!
