Terni
Ancient history
The Terni area has been inhabited since the Protohistoric Age, as evidenced by the necropolis of the Acciaierie, used by a significant community from the last phase of the Bronze Age to the initial phase of the First Iron Age. This community, attributable to the "Culture of Terni", had its own settlement in the hilly and foothills north of the current city, probably in the area of Civitella. In the 7th century BC, a proto-urban center was born in the area located at the confluence of the Nera river and the Serra stream, where the settlement of "Interamna Nahartium" then developed. The traditional founding date of the city, 672 BC, is confirmed by a Roman inscription from AD 32. The city was inhabited by the pre-Roman peoples called "Nahartes", an ethnonym that unites all the Umbrian populations that lived along the Nahar river (the Naia) at the bottom of the valley.
Recent history
Terni has been a city with a high rate of industrial development since the Middle Ages, when it was a rich and combative medieval commune with dozens and dozens of water mills. In the 19th century, its industrial potential grew during the Second Industrial Revolution, so much so that it was nicknamed "The City of Steel" and the "Italian Manchester". It is home to the famous Acciaierie di Terni founded in 1884 and an important Arms Factory since 1875, still active, as well as hydroelectric plants and specialized factories in the textile and chemical sectors. Terni suffered heavy bombing during World War II by the Allies. In the 21st century, Terni has a modern structure, arising from post-war reconstructions.
Tourist attractions
Despite its modernity, Terni still offers many historical testimonies such as the archaeological findings from the Iron Age, Roman, medieval, and baroque monuments. Within the city, there are numerous squares such as Piazza Tacito, dedicated to the historian of the same name born in Terni, and Piazza del Popolo, the heart of city life. The basilica of San Valentino houses the remains of the bishop of the city, the patron saint of lovers, while the Marmore waterfall and Lake Piediluco offer unique natural landscapes.
Culture and traditions
Terni is known as the "city of lovers" for the presence of the remains of Saint Valentine in the basilica of the same name. The city has a culinary tradition based on local products and neighboring areas, such as truffles and mountain meats. Throughout the year, cultural and folk events are held, such as the San Valentino Festival which takes place every year on February 14th and the Terni Film Festival, now in its 23rd edition.
Conclusions
Terni is a city that combines industrial modernity with millennial history, surrounded by natural and cultural beauties. Tourism can enjoy a wide range of attractions, from archaeological heritage to local cuisine, to traditions and events that animate the entire Terni area.
