Established by Abbot Desiderio to protect the territory of Montecassino, Castelnuovo Parano stands at the extreme southern edge of the province of Frosinone, so much so that in the past it marked the border between the possessions of the Abbey of Montecassino and the Duchy of Gaeta.
From the belvedere of the old village, located on the top of a hill, on a clear day, you can see the sea, albeit far away, the Gulf of Gaeta and even Ischia and Naples, and looking towards Cassino, the Abbey of Montecassino.
It gets its name from ‘Castel Nuovo delle Fratte’ (Fratte is today’s Ausonia), combined with Parano, the place where the castle was built, on Mount Parano.
The town becomes very vibrant, especially during the summer period.
Leaving the centre, we move down to the oldest and most modern of its hamlets: S. Antonio Abate or Valli.
It is the most ancient because here, immediately below street level, stands the church of S. Antonio Abate; and the most modern because this hamlet is developing considerably with houses, commercial and industrial activities. Castelnuovo Parano is part, with neighbouring Ausonia and Coreno Ausonio, of the Marble Industrial District.
Castelnuovo Parano can be a starting point for excursions to Monte Calvo.
The Castle and the Protection Tower have undergone major renovations in the historical centre.
Every house, every stone, every corner of the town has been upgraded to such an extent that it is among the most beautiful places to stay for tourists who love historical memories.
The local food tradition is rustic and flavoursome: try Laina e Cici, a simple pasta dish based on fresh pasta and chickpeas that has made the town’s history, and Marzolina, a goat’s cheese that is processed from March to October and has a strong, flavoured taste.
The Queen of the local taste is also the typical good pork sausage with bruschetta.