Onano lies in the Volsini Mountains in Tuscia, at the border between Lazio and Tuscany. Just a few kilometres away, lie Lake Bolsena and the Monte Rufeno Nature Reserve, ideal destinations for nature and hiking lovers.
Palazzo Monaldeschi in Onano – Photo: retedimorestorichelazio.it
The historic centre, with its narrow alleys and small squares, preserves its unique medieval atmosphere. It also hosts the magnificent Palazzo dei Monaldeschi della Cervara, today’s Town Hall, listed in the Network of Historic Residences of Lazio. Originally built in the early Middle Ages as a defensive fortress, it was transformed into an elegant palace by the Monaldeschi Family during the 15th century.
The fresco inside the Church of Madonna delle Grazie, one of Onano’s most important artistic treasures
The small country church of Madonna delle Grazie preserves the extraordinary fresco of “The Virgin and Child”, likely commissioned by the Monaldeschi Family to the painter Sano di Pietro (Siena 1400 – 1491).
Other small rural places of cult in Onano are the churches of Santa Maria del Soccorso, Madonna della SS. Trinità, and Madonna del Piano.
Lina Cavalieri
Onano is the birthplace of Lina Cavalieri. Born in the 19th century, she achieved fame in Italy and abroad for her charm, beauty, and captivating voice, performing both popular songs and opera arias. She was considered the most beautiful woman in the world, so much that she inspired the famous movie “Beautiful but Dangerous” with Gina Lollobrigida. Gabriele D’Annunzio even dedicated a copy of “Il Piacere” to her, describing the artist as the supreme embodiment of Venus on earth.
Onano PGI Lentils
Traditional local products are the Onano PGI lentil, celebrated at a festival during the first ten days of August, and the Alto Viterbese potatoes, used to prepare gnocchi. Another delicious speciality is the Biscotto di Sant’Antonio, a braided sweet bread made according to ancient local recipes, to be perfectly accompanied by the Colli Etruschi Viterbesi or Tuscia DOC wines.