Poli, comune in Lazio, Italy
Poli is a small commune in the Metropolitan City of Rome, situated at about 435 meters elevation within the Prenestini mountain range in the Lazio region. The town features narrow stone streets winding toward a central square with a modest church, surrounded by dense forests and with Mount Guadagnolo rising nearby as a dominant natural feature.
Poli was established around the year 992 and later came under the control of the Conti family in the 12th century, who ruled the territory for several centuries. A notable resident was Michelangelo Conti, who became Pope Innocent XIII and was born in a room of the old family palace, whose remains are still visible today.
The name Poli reflects its medieval roots and connections to local noble families who shaped the territory. Residents keep traditions alive through the annual feast of Saint Eustace in September, when the community gathers in the town square for processions, music, and shared meals that honor their patron saint.
The best way to arrive is by car or bike, as public transportation is limited though a bus does connect the town to other parts of the region and Rome. The narrow stone streets are easily explored on foot, offering an immediate sense of the place's history and slow pace.
One surprising historical detail is that a local resident named Michelangelo Conti later became Pope and is known as Pope Innocent XIII. Visitors can still see the old family palace today, where this future pope was born in a simple room within the Conti residence.
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