Sant'Angelo Romano
The Beautiful Town of Sant'Angelo Romano, Located Just Outside Rome
Sant'Angelo Romano is an Italian commune with a population of 4,828 inhabitants, situated in the metropolitan city of Rome Capital. The town is located on one of the peaks of the Monti Cornicolani, specifically on Mount Patulo, at an altitude of 400 meters above sea level. The origins of Sant'Angelo Romano are unclear, but it has been associated with the vanished city of Medullia in the ancient Lazio region. The town is just 23.7 km from Rome, making it the closest commune to Rome that isn't bordering the city. Sant'Angelo Romano is famous for its beautiful parish church of Mary (mother of Jesus) and Saint Blaise, bishop and martyr.
Physical Geography
Territory
Sant'Angelo Romano is located on Mount Patulo, 400 meters above sea level and was named in honor of Michael (the Archangel). In the municipal territory, the Pratolungo river originates, a small tributary of the Aniene.
Climate
The commune of Sant'Angelo Romano has a Mediterranean climate, with moderate rainfall throughout the year and very little during the summer months.
History
Of uncertain origin, the town of Sant'Angelo Romano is often associated with the ancient Lazio town of Medullia. In the eleventh century, from the ashes of the fortress, the fortress was born, surrounded by a city wall. The fortress initially belonged to the Capocci family, from which it derived its name Sant'Angelo in Capoccia. Later on, it passed into the hands of the Orsini family, who turned it into a fortified castle.
In 1594, the fief was purchased by Federico Cesi, a scientist, and it was during this period that it experienced its period of greatness. In 1612, Pope Paul V made it a principality headed by Federico Cesi, founder of the famous Accademia dei Lincei, the oldest in Italy headquartered in the capital. In 1678, the castle with the entire fiefdom was sold to the Borghese family, also as a principality.
In 1885, the town changed its name to Sant'Angelo Romano by Royal Decree. In 1989, the commune purchased the castle, and in 1993, renovations and restorations began for its opening to the public.
Symbols
The town emblem depicts the Archangel Michael dressed in red, piercing a green dragon with a lance, against a silver background. The banner shows a white and red split flag.
Monuments and Places of Interest
Religious Architecture
The parish church of Mary (mother of Jesus) and Saint Blaise, bishop and martyr, is one of the major attractions of Sant'Angelo Romano. The church was built in the eighteenth century, replacing the previous parish church of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the Angels. The church was consecrated on June 19, 1759, and underwent subsequent renovations in 1863 and 1976.
Castle
The castle, purchased by the commune of Sant'Angelo Romano in 1989, was restored and opened to the public in 1993. The castle offers a unique experience to visitors who can enjoy the panoramic view of the town and the Tiber valley. The castle also houses a museum dedicated to the town of Sant'Angelo Romano and its traditions.
Other Places of Interest
Sant'Angelo Romano is also famous for its historic center, characterized by narrow alleys and historic buildings. In the historic center, you can also find the Fontana del Dragonetto, a fountain from the fifteenth century that represents a small dragon.
Conclusion
Sant'Angelo Romano is a town that offers a lot to visitors, from its historic church to its restored castle. The town is located just outside Rome and offers an excellent alternative to the better-known tourist attractions in the capital. If you're looking for an authentic experience in the Roman countryside, Sant'Angelo Romano is definitely a place to visit.
