Acuto

Acuto is situated at an altitude of 724 meters on a ridge of the Ernici Mountains, dominating the Sacco Valley. The name derives from the characteristic "acute" shape of the mountain on which the medieval village developed. From every corner of the town, one can admire a splendid panorama that ranges from the Sacco Valley to the Alban Hills and the Lepini Mountains, which, when it snows, turn white, creating a charming scene. The origins of Acuto date back to a distant past. Historical sources believe that there was already a small settlement before the 5th century, when legend has it that it was officially founded in 450 A.D. by a group of exiles from Anagni fleeing from an invasion. However, archaeological findings testify that its birth is much older and can be traced back to the pre-Roman era, probably to an Ernici settlement. The first historical citation of the village dates back to 1051, when documents from the area mention a fortress called "Castrum Acuti." This first fortified center was alternately governed by local lords (including the Caetani and the Counts) and by the bishops of Anagni, who definitively took possession of it at the end of the 14th century. The bond with Anagni became so strong that in 1478 the inhabitants of Acuto were granted Anagnine citizenship. Over the centuries, Acuto maintained a predominant role over other towns in the area, clashing multiple times with Anagni, which attempted to regain lost supremacy. During the war between Spain and the Papacy (1557), while Anagni and other nearby towns were devastated by the army of Marcantonio Colonna, Acuto miraculously escaped destruction. From 1809 to 1814, Acuto was under French Napoleonic rule, before returning under the control of the bishops. From 1815 to 1825, it was plagued by banditry. After the conflicts with Anagni, which ended definitively in 1806, a period of decline began, until the annexation to the Kingdom of Italy in 1870.

What to See Medieval Castle The castle stands at the central point of the town, dominating the entrance gate and the straight village of about two hundred meters. The original construction dates back to around the year 1000; the current structure, built between the 13th and 15th centuries, is only part of the ancient castrum. The castle is privately owned (by the Counts Giannuzzi Savelli) and has been inhabited until recent years. The entrance portal, preceded by a double lateral staircase, leads to a spacious atrium from which access to the two floors is granted. Although not always open for visits, on some special occasions, it is possible to admire the interiors.

The Portals Acuto is famous for its elegant stone portals that adorn the ancient buildings of the historic center, determining their harmony and overall beauty. The raw materials used vary from sandstone to granite to fine marble, depending on the financial capability of the client. The art of Renaissance portals developed greatly in this area, and it is believed that the magnificent portals of Acuto are the work of stonemasons from Abruzzo, particularly from Alfedena, where there was an ancient tradition of stone craftsmanship. The portals exhibit refined decorative elements ranging from simple round arches to elaborate frames with noble coats of arms.

Collegiata di Santa Maria Assunta The main church of the town, built in the 18th century but mostly remodeled in the 19th century, is imposing in the mass of the entire building. The most particular characteristic is the apse, which is the reutilization of one of the towers belonging to the medieval city walls - a unique example of sacred architecture that incorporates defensive elements. The interior houses paintings from the 18th and 19th centuries and an interesting stucco decoration. The church preserves testimonies of popular devotion from Ciociaria.

Church of San Pietro in Vincoli Of Lombard-Byzantine style, it is one of the oldest religious buildings in Acuto. The church retains architectural elements that testify to its medieval origin and represents an important example of sacred architecture in Ciociaria.

Church of San Sebastiano Dating back to 1200, the church is located in the eastern outskirts of the town. Once, it housed a valuable wooden statue of the Madonna and Child, better known as the "Madonna of Acuto," now exhibited at the Palazzo Venezia in Rome. The walls are frescoed with precious 16th-century paintings depicting Saint Jerome, the Annunciation, and Saint Michael the Archangel.

Church of the Madonna del Mezzo Monte Located outside the town center, along a road that winds through olive groves south of the village, this rural church was built in the 17th century. It retains frescoes of considerable artistic importance, but its unique feature is its portico crossed by the road - a very rare and fascinating architectural element.

Church of Santa Maria Maddalena An ancient church from the 11th century, it fell into decay around 1460 and is located in the rural area of the same name. It still retains part of the old enclosure meant for the reception and assistance of lepers - it was indeed an ancient leprosarium. The architecture is very simple: it is a Romanesque-style gabled building that preserves valuable medieval frescoes in good conservation condition.

Historical Center and Piazza San Nicola The medieval center of Acuto is a perfectly preserved gem. By passing through the arch of the main gate, one enters the heart of the medieval village, with a square adjacent to the walls where a monument to the fallen stands. The defensive walls connecting the various towers are still partially recognizable, while others have been incorporated into the surrounding houses. The perimeter wall remains fully visible and impressive. The narrow streets are paved with gray cobblestones featuring central white inserts creating a simple yet elegant design. The tall and imposing houses, with stone arched doors, have spacious interiors and high ceilings. Piazza San Nicola is a true panoramic terrace in the heart of the village: leaning against the crenellated railing, one can admire the entire underlying Sacco Valley, with the peaks of the Lepini Mountains across which, when snowy, turn white. The view is breathtaking, especially in the morning when a few light clouds float in the air, making the landscape even more picturesque.

Casa Museo Santa Maria De Mattias Museum dedicated to Santa Maria De Mattias, born in Acuto on February 4, 1805. Founder of the congregation of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, she was canonized by Pope John Paul II. The museum preserves relics, documents, and personal items of the Saint, allowing visitors to learn about the life and work of this extraordinary Ciociaria figure beloved worldwide.

WWF Nature Trail "Cesa Rotonda" In the locality "Il Laghetto," there is this naturalistic path managed by the WWF, ideal for walks immersed in the nature of the Ernici Mountains, with the possibility of observing local flora and fauna. Traditions and Events

Infiorata del Corpus Domini: Artistic floral carpets decorate the streets of the historic center Estate Acutina (July-August): A series of cultural, musical, and theatrical events Acuto Jazz (July-August): A jazz festival attracting musicians and enthusiasts from across the region Altaranta (August): A summer cultural event Festivities of San Maurizio (September 22-23): Patron's feast with religious and civic celebrations

Typical Products Acuto is part of the production area of Cesanese del Piglio DOCG and also produces excellent extra virgin olive oil. The local cuisine boasts specialties such as maccheroncini with ragù, roasted lamb, broccoli cooked in wine, ciammaruche (snails), and curticchiozze. The typical bread includes tortoli and patacche.