Monte San Giovanni Campano, a town in the province of Frosinone, is located about a hundred kilometres from Rome.
Perched on the Ernici Mountains, its distinctive conformation is attributed to the phenomenon of “incastellamento,” a response to barbarian invasions that forced populations to seek refuge in high, secure, and protected places.
The name San Giovanni refers to the Benedictine monastery from the 6th century dedicated to Saints John the Baptist and Evangelist. The term “Campano” derives from “Campagna,” one of the provinces of the Papal States to which the village belonged.
The ancient nucleus is built along the slopes of a rocky hill, 420 meters high, culminating in the Castle.
An imposing defensive wall protected the north-east side, while the other sides were secured by cliffs and steep rocky slopes.
Thirty-six small towers are distributed along the perimeter of the settlement, either incorporated into the perimeter houses or submerged in vegetation.
The Castle of Monte San Giovanni Campano, place of imprisonment of Saint Thomas; the city walls with its towers and the three medieval gates of the ancient settlement: the Codardi Gate, San Rocco Gate, and Scrima Gate.
On 30 November 2012, the city of Monte San Giovanni Campano was awarded the Medal for Civil Valor for the episodes in which the population distinguished itself during World War II.
“Sagne e fagioli” (pasta with beans) is the traditional dish, along with the characteristic “fedelini,” thin fettuccine with ragù.
The delightful reputation of the region is also reflected in “fettuccine alla ciociara,” “bruschetta cappuccina,” and “garofolata,” rolls of sheep meat filled with cloves and other spices.