Boville Ernica

Boville Ernica is a town and comune in Lazio, Italy. It is located over the summit of a steep hill commanding the Liri, Cosa and Sacco valleys.

History

The town's history stretches back to pre-Roman times, which is testified by its numerous archaeological findings and prehistoric Pelasgic walls. Its primordial name, "Bauco", recalls the ancient agricultural worship of the god Bove, symbol of fertility. In the archaeological area of Monte Fico, where once stood a temple dedicated to this divinity, there have come to light votive statuettes featuring oxen.

Boville Ernica was once situated on the plains below its present site, but after the Saracen and Hungarian invasions (9th–10th centuries), its population moved to the higher levels of Monte Fico, where the ancient center was transformed into one of the most fortified towns in the region.

Main sights

In addition to the Pelasgic walls, sights include the imposing castle and its powerful belts of Medieval walls having as many as 18 turrets and towers (alternating as round and square shapes), all still stand completely intact.