Villa Santo Stefano
Welcome to Villa Santo Stefano, where myth meets history
Located in the province of Frosinone, in Lazio, Villa Santo Stefano is an Italian municipality of 1606 inhabitants with a hilly terrain that stretches from the top of Monte Siserno to the banks of the Amaseno river. A village rooted in ancient history that combines myth with history, an enchanting place where every corner tells a different story.
The physical geography of Villa Santo Stefano
The territory of Villa Santo Stefano is predominantly hilly, located between the top of Monte Siserno and the banks of the Amaseno river.
The history of Villa Santo Stefano
According to legend, Villa Santo Stefano was the favorite hunting ground of the Volscian king Metabo, father of the warrior princess Camilla. The building of the Tower of King Metabo still exists today, located at the entrance of the historical center of the village. The exploits of the Volscian king are described in Virgil's Aeneid.
Dating back to the Roman era, the first settlements were located on the banks of the Amaseno river, and on the mountain behind the village, remains of late Roman settlements belonging to rural settlements were found. Following the Barbarian invasions and Saracen raids, the population moved to the slopes of Mount Siserno, giving rise to ''Castrum Sancti Stephanii''. In the thirteenth century, the territory was in the hands of the De Ceccano family, who built the fortification, the Marquess's Palace, and the tower dedicated to Metabo.
In 1425, the feudal lordship was sold to the Colonna family, who were the barons until 1816 when they renounced their lordships due to Napoleon Bonaparte's suppression of feudalism. With the formation of the Kingdom of Italy, Santo Stefano became part of the Subprefecture of Frosinone and the Mandate of Ceccano. In 1872, Santo Stefano changed its name to Villa Santo Stefano to avoid confusion with other municipalities.
During the Napoleonic period, Villa Santo Stefano suffered from brigandage, which also had effects on the local economy. The village, which had always had a poor economy based on agriculture and pastoralism, experienced diaspora emigration towards the United States of America, Canada, and Argentina at the end of the nineteenth century.
The landslides in Villa Santo Stefano
On March 28, 1932, Villa Santo Stefano suffered from landslides in the historical center and the collapse of several houses in the Gorizia district. The event marked the history and life of the village: the village faced great challenges to rebuild and return to being the welcoming and wonderful place it is today.
In short, Villa Santo Stefano is a village that enchants for its natural beauty, the charm of its history, and the life of its inhabitants. A perfect destination for those seeking tradition, culture, and beauty near the capital Rome. Come and visit us and be seduced by its beauties!
