Fumone, Italian comune
Fumone is a small commune in the province of Frosinone, built on a cone-shaped hill at approximately 738 meters elevation. The settlement follows an elliptical structure with narrow streets and tightly clustered stone buildings arranged around a medieval fortress at the hilltop.
Fumone was likely settled from the 9th century and served as an important lookout point near the border of the Papal States. In 1233, a fortress was built there as a Church stronghold and later functioned as a prison for notable captives, including Pope Celestino V, who died within its walls under mysterious circumstances.
The name Fumone comes from medieval times when fires were lit on a tower to send warning signals across the region. This signaling tradition remains central to local identity, with stories about how smoke alerts connected this hilltop to distant communities.
The town is easy to explore on foot since it is small enough to traverse in a few hours, and the narrow streets make walking the central experience. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as many paths are cobbled and uneven, especially when climbing toward the castle at the hilltop.
Fumone served as a prison for Pope Celestino V, known as the pope of the "great refusal" because he resigned after only months in office and was confined to this fortress. His mysterious death within the castle walls remains one of the most puzzling events in Church history.
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