Latina​

By Dion Protani
Latest update: 14 March 2022
The city of Latina is the capital city of the Province of Latina with a population of 126,746 inhabitants. Standing at an elevation of 21 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 277 km² and lies 80 kilometres north east of Rome, the capital city of Lazio. 

Originally founded in 1932 by Benito Mussolini, the city is famous for its rationalist architecture; the town hall being a prime example. 
The main square in Latina is Piazza del Popolo and this is where the aforementioned Town Hall is located. Other places of interest include the Cattedrale di San Marco and Parco Falco Borsellino.
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Latina is a modern town and the capital of Latina Province in the Lazio region of central Italy. It was founded in 1932 as part of a large-scale land reclamation project under Mussolini's Fascist regime, aimed at transforming the Pontine Marshes into arable land for agricultural purposes. Today, it is a vibrant town with a mix of modern and rationalist architecture, offering visitors a glimpse into Italy's more recent history. 

History: The history of Latina is relatively young, dating back to the 20th century when the ambitious land reclamation project of the Pontine Marshes was undertaken. The project aimed to drain the marshes and create new agricultural settlements in the area. The town of Latina was built as the administrative center and focal point of the reclamation effort.

Thousands of people from different regions of Italy were relocated to Latina and the surrounding areas to cultivate the newly reclaimed land. Over the years, the town has grown and evolved, witnessing significant development and modernization.

Tourist Information:

  • Piazza del Popolo: Latina's central square, Piazza del Popolo, is the heart of the town and a popular gathering place. It features a striking fountain and is surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a lively spot for locals and visitors alike.
  • Palazzo della Prefettura: This impressive building serves as the seat of the Prefecture of Latina and is a prominent example of rationalist architecture. Visitors can admire its elegant facade and grandeur.
  • The Garden of Ninfa: While not located directly within Latina, the Garden of Ninfa is a famous attraction nearby that is worth a visit. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, historic ruins, and a wide variety of plant species.
  • Sabaudia Beaches: Sabaudia, a coastal town near Latina, is renowned for its sandy beaches and clear waters. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the sea.
  • Circeo National Park: Located nearby, the Circeo National Park offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
  • Local Cuisine: In Latina, visitors can savor traditional Italian dishes with a focus on fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. The town offers a range of restaurants and trattorias where you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine.
Comune di Latina
Province: Latina

Region: ​Lazio

Population: 127,560 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2022)

​Size: 277 km²

Highlights: Cattedrale di San Marco, Rationalist Architecture

​Close by: Nettuno, Anzio, Sabaudia, Circeo National Park

Recommended accommodation: Il Fogliano Hotel (9 km)

Latina  Travel

Latina does have a train station but it's located nine kilometres outside the city at a satellite town called Latina Scalo, a 20 minute drive away. ​By car you can reach Rome in 1 hour 20 minutes (72 km) or the fellow provincial capitals as follows: Frosinone - 59 minutes (53 km), Rieti - 2 hours 6 minutes (162 km) or Viterbo in 2 hours 9 minutes (155 km).

Both Rome Fiumicino Airport and Rome Ciampino Airport are convenient for Latina; Fiumicino is an hour's drive away (77 km), while Ciampino can be reached in an hour and ten minutes, a journey of 53 kilometres. ​
Public transport: ​local buses

Nearest train station: ​Latina Scalo (9 km)
By car: ​​​Frosinone - 59 mins (53 km), Rome - 1 hr 20 mins (72 km)
​
By air: ​​​Rome Fiumicino - 1 hour, Rome Ciampino - 1 hr 10 mins

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