Castiglione
Hello Castiglione del Lago!
Have you ever heard of this beautiful Umbrian town? That's where I want to take you today! With a population of 15,151 inhabitants, Castiglione del Lago is located in the province of Perugia and is situated on a promontory on the western shore of Lake Trasimeno. Over the centuries, this city has undergone many transformations, becoming an important seat for the Regia Aeronautica and today is part of the Trasimeno Medio Tevere Mountain Community. Castiglione del Lago also boasts its delicious Trasimeno bean and its important production of oil and wine. Let's discover together all the details of this city!
The physical geography of Castiglione del Lago
The territory
Castiglione del Lago is located in western Umbria on the western shores of Lake Trasimeno and the municipal territory extends to the border with Tuscany, shared with the municipalities of Chiusi and Montepulciano, in the province of Siena, and Cortona, in the province of Arezzo, and includes the island of Polvese. The historic center is located on a limestone promontory that originally was to be the fourth island in the lake but later, due to the lowering of the water level and the creation of an alluvial plain, assumed its current configuration. This fertile flat area, corresponding to the ancient lacustrine basin, is delimited to the west by a series of hilly reliefs that mark the physical border with Tuscany.
The climate
Castiglione del Lago belongs to Zone D in the climatic classification of Italian municipalities, with an average annual temperature of 11.9°C and an average rainfall of 870mm.
The origin of the name Castiglione del Lago
The original name of the city of Castiglione del Lago was ''Clusium Novum'', meaning New Chiusi, later replaced by ''Castula'' or ''Castellio'' and later ''Castiglione Chiusino'' or ''Chiugino''. The current toponym was born in the 13th century with the construction of the Rocca del Leone, called so because the pentagonal plant resembles the composition of the Leo (constellation); the village, in fact, began to assume the name of Castellum Leonis, that is Castle of the Lion.
The history of Castiglione del Lago
Ancient and Medieval period
Castiglione del Lago has a long history that dates back to the Etruscan civilization. It was in fact a territory under the Etruscan Dodecapoli, dependent on the city of Chiusi. After the Roman conquest of Etruria, the village of Castiglione del Lago becomes a station and a camp on the Cassia Road. In the 10th century, the village was mentioned as a fortified village with the name Castello Chiusino or Chiugino. In 1247, during the conflicts between the Guelphs and Ghibellines, the city was destroyed by the Cortonese and Aretine Ghibellines, although the latter initiated the reconstruction with the construction of the Rocca del Leone, a fortified support point along the road between Rome and Florence.
Renaissance and New regime
In the 16th century, the city became the seat of a Marchesato di Castiglione del Lago, later elevated to duchy, ruled by the della Corgna family on behalf of the Papal State. Many important buildings were built in this period, such as the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, the Palazzo Ducale and the Torre del Rivellino. In 1860, Castiglione del Lago became part of the Kingdom of Italy.
The 20th century
In the 20th century, Castiglione del Lago became an important center for the Regia Aeronautica thanks to the presence of the Leopoldo Eleuteri airport, decommissioned after World War II. Today, the city mainly lives on agriculture and tourism, still maintaining its ancient traditions and beauty.
The beauties of Castiglione del Lago
Castiglione del Lago is one of the most beautiful cities in Umbria and in Italy. Its medieval historic center, with the Cathedral and the Palazzo Ducale, is undoubtedly one of the main tourist attractions of the city. The Rocca del Leone, built in the 13th century, dominates the city and offers a spectacular view of Lake Trasimeno. The Castiglione del Lago lakefront is a perfect place for a walk and to enjoy the unique panorama. In addition, the city is famous for its excellent production of oil and wine, with many local wineries and producers offering tastings.
The Trasimeno bean
Castiglione del Lago also boasts a delicious Slow Food specialty, the Trasimeno bean. This variety of beans, which grow on the hills around Lake Trasimeno, are small, sweet, and creamy, with a delicate and unique flavor. The Trasimeno bean is used in numerous traditional local recipes, such as bean soup, bruschetta, and dishes based on game.
Conclusion
In summary, Castiglione del Lago is a beautiful city that is definitely worth a visit. With its millennial history, its beautiful historic center and its production of oil, wine and Trasimeno bean, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Do not miss the opportunity to visit this enchanting Italian city!
