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The Historic Centre of Monterotondo: On the Via di Francesco, Medieval Lanes and Orsini Palaces
Those travelling on the Via di Francesco (Way of Francis) from Rome to Assisi will arrive at Monterotondo after 19 kilometres of Roman countryside. It is a steep climb to the historic centre, the final exertion before entering a town constructed in two distinct periods. The lower part follows the natural contours of the hill, with curving streets. Higher up, the Orsini family in the 16th century wanted a grid layout inspired by the Roman castrum. This family governed the feudal lordship from 1286 to 1626.
What Remains of the Middle Ages
Some houses still preserve the profferlo — the external staircase that in medieval times led up to the raised ground floor of a dwelling, particularly in the Latium region. Examples can be seen in Via Alighieri. The doorways tell family histories: in Via Vitali, an Orsini coat of arms bears the date 1476. Via Serrecchia is home to a south-facing tower-house.
Squares and Gates
Piazza della Repubblica has a sundial design inlaid into its paving; opposite stands Palazzo dell'Orologio, with its large clock face on the façade; this used to be the town hall. Entry to the town is via Porta Garibaldi, the only survivor of the original four town gates. Its name commemorates October 1867, when Garibaldi's volunteers forced their way through it to enter the town. For pilgrims heading to Assisi, the Cathedral (Duomo) marks the end of this stage; the next stage crosses the Macchia di Gattaceca nature reserve.
