Montefiascone

The etymology of the name is uncertain but it seems to derive from "fiascone” a large wine container in honour of the rich wine production in the area. 

The roots of the town go back a long way. Communal tombs, presumably Neolithic dated around 18008.C., which were hewn into the rock at Rinaldone predate even the Etruscan civilization. The development of Montefiascone, like its history, was strongly linked to the Cassia which played an important role in all ages connecting Rome to central Italy, the Padana Plain and on to France (which gave it its name the Francigena). Given its strategic position, the Popes and Bishops of Rome had the centre fortified so that those of the surrounding area could defend themselves from frequent barbarous attacks.

The town walls were endowed with an imposing fortress in the second half of the thirteenth century but during the Renaissance military needs made many modifications necessary to the original structure. 

Some of these were carried out by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger, who also designed a convent in the area of Monte d'Oro which was never completed (the plans can be found in the Uffizi in Florence). Many Popes were involved in the continued fortifications over the following centuries.

Pope Leo X loved to spend the summer in Montefiascone often inviting illustrious guests such as Michelangelo.

The Papal Fortress which has been well restored and beautified, is today often used for cultural events.

For more information visit:     

www.comune.montefiascone.vt.it
www.fieradelvinomontefiascone.it
www.estfilmfestival.it

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