Farnese, Lazio, comune in Lazio, Italy
Farnese is a small commune in the Province of Viterbo in the Lazio region, situated on a hilltop with views of the surrounding countryside. Its historic center contains narrow streets with old stone houses, the Rocca fortress, several churches, and the Porta Nuova gate from 1613.
The settlement formed in the Middle Ages around the 12th century and was shaped by the Farnese family, who gained prominence in the 16th century when Pope Paul III rose to power. During this period, elegant palaces, churches, and gardens were built, establishing the town's reputation as a center of art and patronage during the Renaissance.
The name Farnese likely comes from the noble family or a local oak tree called farnia. The town hosts an annual literary prize called the Farnia d'Oro where local authors share their stories, keeping the region's writing tradition alive.
The town is easily reached by car or bus along quiet rural roads and sits in the heart of the Alto Lazio region near Lake Bolsena. Once there, you can explore on foot at a relaxed pace, and the tourist office on Corso Vittorio Emanuele III provides information about sights, accommodations, and local eateries.
The town served as the filming location for the 1971 film "Le Avventure di Pinocchio," and five spots around the village are marked with signs showing scenes from the movie. These same historic locations have since been used for new film productions, demonstrating how the old village continues to draw storytellers.
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