Civitavecchia - Acropoli di Arpino
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 28 November 2023
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A short distance up the road from the town of Arpino in Lazio's Ciociaria region, is the village of Civitavecchia.
In fact, the village of Civitavecchia which roughly translates as "Old Town", is also referred to as the Acropoli di Arpino, the citadel or acropolis of the lower town. It's here that we find Arpino's most famous sight: the Torre di Cicerone, named after its favourite son. |
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Dominating the little park area at the southern end of the walled village is the watchtower named after former Roman consul Cicero who, along with the general Gaius Marius, lived in Arpino during the time of the Roman Empire.
The village is an essential stop if visiting Arpino, not just to see the tower, but to walk through the pretty streets of the medieval village and to enjoy the fabulous panoramas down to the town below. The views can be enjoyed from a number of areas; around the tower in particular, but also from a section of the defensive wall, sections of which you can walk along.
The village is an essential stop if visiting Arpino, not just to see the tower, but to walk through the pretty streets of the medieval village and to enjoy the fabulous panoramas down to the town below. The views can be enjoyed from a number of areas; around the tower in particular, but also from a section of the defensive wall, sections of which you can walk along.
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Acropoli di Arpino, also known as Arpino Archaeological Park, is an ancient archaeological site located in the town of Arpino in the Lazio region of Italy. Situated on a hilltop overlooking the Valle del Liri, the site offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the region and holds immense historical and cultural importance.
History
The history of Acropoli di Arpino dates back to ancient times, with evidence of settlements from the 7th century BC. The site was originally inhabited by the ancient Italic people of the Volsci, before being conquered by the Romans. During the Roman Republic, Arpino became an important municipium and played a significant role in Roman politics and military affairs.
Acropoli di Arpino is renowned as the birthplace of two prominent figures in Roman history - Cicero (Marcus Tullius Cicero) and Gaius Marius. Cicero, one of the greatest orators and statesmen of ancient Rome, was born in Arpino in 106 BC.
Acropoli di Arpino is renowned as the birthplace of two prominent figures in Roman history - Cicero (Marcus Tullius Cicero) and Gaius Marius. Cicero, one of the greatest orators and statesmen of ancient Rome, was born in Arpino in 106 BC.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Roman Theatre: The site features the remains of a Roman theatre, once a grand entertainment venue that hosted theatrical performances and public gatherings.
- Cyclopean Walls: Explore the ancient Cyclopean walls, massive stone fortifications that protected the settlement.
- Temple of Minerva: Discover the remains of the Temple of Minerva, a significant religious site in ancient Arpino.
- Civic Buildings: Visit the remnants of civic buildings and structures that reveal the town's administrative and political importance during the Roman era.
- Archaeological Museum: After exploring the site, visit the Archaeological Museum of Arpino to see artifacts and exhibits from the excavations.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the Valle del Liri and the picturesque landscape surrounding the site.
Civitavecchia - frazione di Arpino
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Comune: Arpino
Province: Frosinone Region: Lazio Population: around 100 Elevation: 627 metres Highlights: Torre di Cicerone Where to stay: Hotel Il Cavalier d'Arpino (4 km) Where to eat: Il Ciclope Hotel and Restaurant (1.4 km) |
