Latera
Latera
Latera is a village located along the border between Lazio and Tuscany in the province of Viterbo a few km from the shores of Lake Bolsena. The country is located in the territory of the Volsini Mountains and is perched on a hill located on the north-eastern edge of the volcanic valley. The historic center has a typically medieval structure, framed by the wild nature that surrounds and protects it. In fact, Latera literally means “Latere“which translated means” hide, conceal “. The choice of the toponym refers to the geographical location of the city, which is hidden by the vegetation.
The locality has very ancient historical origins as evidenced by finds dating back to 5000 BC. The village, as we know it today, dates back to the Middle Ages. The city as well as being very interesting to visit for those who love the history of that period, offers satisfaction to cooking enthusiasts. During the year a series of gastronomic festivals take place in the town which present some dishes of the local popular culture, including the pizzicotto a typical pasta made with the dough of bread, cooked in water. Also famous is the “brown festival of Latera”, one of the most important culinary products of the area.
Not to be missed
Latera is a pretty medieval-style village, the town is divided into two areas: an old part and a new one. Inside the historic center it is possible to admire a series of interesting buildings and churches, the history and traditions of this town. The most important are:
Where to eat
Latera has an important gastronomic culture, as evidenced by the presence in the town of restaurants and taverns of ancient tradition. The kitchens of the premises offer almost all menus linked to tradition made with products grown in this land.
Where to sleep
For those who want to stay in Latera, the main accommodation facilities are located just outside the town, immersed in the green countryside of the Maremma Laziale.
Events
In Latera during the year there are many events related to local popular culture. The historical recurrences of the town are three:
- The Sant’Isidoro agricultural festival which takes place in the month of May;
- The Sagra del Pizzicotto, a gastronomic event dedicated to a typical dish of peasant cuisine, which takes place every year in July;
- The Sagra del Marrone, a festival in honor of the chestnut, a symbolic product of Latera, takes place in October.
Reviews
History
Latera is a medieval-looking village located a few kilometers from Lake Bolsena. The inhabited center rises in a marginal position with respect to the large basin and the main communication routes, this geographical factor has determined its name derives from the Latin term “latere” which literally means “on the edge”. The first sure news of the country’s existence is contained in an 11th century document that mentioned the ” Castellum Laterale “. In 1080p the village that was part of the Patrimony of San Pietro in Tusciae. later it was ceded by Gregory VII to the Aldobrandeschi counts. After being passed under the control of various lords, Latera was subdued by Orvieto in 1298 in agreement with the pope. The village was destroyed in 1328 by the troops of Ludovico il Bavaro and in 1351, the area was conquered by Giovanni di Vico. In 1353 Cardinal Albornoz brought Latera back under the direct control of the Holy See. Subsequently Pope Gregory XII granted the town as a vicariate to Ranuccio Farnese. Fortunately the city was not involved in the foundation of the Duchy of Castro and this allowed it to come out unscathed from its destruction in 1649.
How to reach Latera
Latera is easily accessible by car, the town is also served by the CO.TRA.L. The city is about 150 km from Rome and the town is located on the road that connects Acquapendente to Pitigliano in Tuscany.