Montopoli di sabina |
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| Although the origins of Montopoli are uncertain, the historians of Sabina confirm that during the period of Augustus, the villa of the rich Caio Asinio Pollione, famous learnt man and roman general at that time, was located in Montopoli. According to the historians Montopoli's name derives from Mons Pollionis which became Mons Operis (for the laboriousness of its population) with the time passing and later on Monti Opuli (for the abundance of its nature). It is set in an area rich in archaeological finds dating from the Roman period: in 290 bC Curio Dentato subdued the ancient Città di Cures which had ruled the area so far, opening the way to new Roman settlements and initiating the history of Montopoli. The story tells that Montopoli passed under the dominion of Farfa Abbey around year 1000 and from then onwards it was affected by all the events of the famous abbey. It became involved in the fights between emperors and popes and its inhabitants distinguished themselves from the faithful warriors. Around year 1000 Abbot Ugo ordered a Tower to be built on the highest point of the village to dominate the valley; it is still well-conserved today. In 1243 Pope Gregorio IX ordered Montopoli to be looted and destroyed. The period of dominion started after the reconstruction of the town; it was first passed to the Colonna and then returned to Farfa. It also served as dwelling for the abbots Arnaldo and Nicolò II for a short period. Then Montopoli passed to the Orsini and the Felici. This was a period of excitement and initiatives. Beautiful Palazzo Orsini and, although renovated, the Franciscan Sanctuary of Santa Maria degli Angeli, are still visible from Porta Romana. |
