Happy TravellerWelcome to Frosinone, a quaint town located in the heart of Lazio, central Italy. As the administrative seat of the province of Frosinone, this charming city is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors. However, Frosinone boasts a rich history, stunning landscapes, and delightful local cuisine. Situated just 75 kilometers southeast of Rome and easily accessible via the Rome-Naples A1 Motorway, Frosinone is the perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Frosinone is the main city of the Valle Latina, a historical region that extends from south of Rome to Cassino. The town has a rich and millenary history, being founded in the territory of Hernicians by the Volsci in the 6th century BC. Since then, the city has been subjugated by the Romans in 386 BC and was transformed into a municipium. During the Second Punic War, Hannibals armies devastated the city, to which it refused to surrender. This event earned it the appellative, given by Silio Italico, of Bellator Frusino, which still stands out in the city coat of arms. The city obtained citizenship rights and became a colony in Roman imperial times.
Frosinone’s medieval age saw it destroyed several times by foreign invaders. In the 13th century, it became the capital of a duchy assigned to the Gaetani, and from that century, it was occasionally the seat of the rector of Campagna and Marittima, together with other cities of the papal province such as Ferentino, Anagni, and Priverno. In the 16th century, it was devastated by the Landsknecht, who brought the plague there, immediately followed by French and Florentine troops, at the same time as the Sack of Rome. The fortress, destroyed, was rebuilt; whose main entrance portal would have been designed by Michelangelo. New destruction occurred with the occupation by the Spanish troops at war against Pope Paul IV in 1556: its fortress was strategically important for the control of the whole Sacco valley and for the defence of Rome.
Frosinone steadily expanded its population in modern times, passing from around 2,000 people in the mid-17th century to the over 10,000 it had at the Unification of Italy (late 19th century). At the same time, a new architectural and urban development began, with the construction or renovation of monuments and places of worship, and in the nineteenth century, the construction of new important roads, on all the Via Nova and Viale Roma, new access to the city. In June 1873 Urbano Rattazzi, then President of the Council of Ministers, died suddenly in Frosinone while he was staying with a friend. For that occasion, numerous politicians and officials of the King arrived in the city.
Frosinone is renowned for its beautiful landscapes and historic sites. The city is home to several important landmarks, including the Berardi Palace, the Palace of the Province, and the Chamber of Commerce. The city also boasts a wealth of museums, including the National Museum of Mentana and the Villa Albani. The area around Frosinone is also famous for its scenic beauty, with stunning countryside views and rolling hills. Visitors can explore the beautiful surroundings by taking hikes or bike rides through the countryside.
Finally, no visit to Frosinone is complete without sampling some of the local cuisine. The town is famous for its mouthwatering dishes, including traditional pasta dishes and hearty stews. Visitors can also enjoy delicious wines and other local specialties.
In conclusion, Frosinone may be small, but it has a lot to offer. From its rich history to its stunning landscapes, this charming town should not be missed. Whether you are looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Frosinone is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and culture of Italy.
