This content was automatically translated. View the original text.
Piazza Frà Diavolo in Itri: the heart of the old town, where the brigand who defied Napoleon was born
In the historic centre of Itri, Piazza Frà Diavolo is the village's main gathering place: in summer it hosts events and concerts; for the rest of the year it serves as an outdoor sitting room for the elderly, who stop to talk. The square is dedicated to Michele Pezza, the most celebrated figure of Itri, born here on 7 April 1771 in a house just a few yards below. A plaque marks the exact spot.
The origin of a nickname
Young Michele fell gravely ill as a child. His mother made a vow to St Francis: if he recovered, she would have him wear the Franciscan habit until it wore out. He recovered, and that habit earned him the nickname Frà Michelino. Then, due to his restless, rebellious character, this nickname turned into Frà Diavolo (Brother Devil).
From outlaw to colonel
After killing someone over a question of honour, Pezza took to the hills of the Aurunci Mountains. But it was the French invasion that changed his life: King Ferdinand IV commuted death sentences to military service. Frà Diavolo enlisted, and revealed a natural talent for guerrilla warfare. From the Fort of Sant'Andrea, along the Appian Way, he held up the advance of Napoleonic troops for several days. He was appointed colonel and Duke of Cassano. Captured in 1806 after disobeying the order to retreat, he was hanged in Naples in Piazza Mercato on 11 November, at the age of 35.
