Fontana Liri Superiore: Medieval Centre and Castello Succorte

Fontana Liri Superiore is the historic medieval centre of Fontana Liri. The old village is partly abandoned and undergoing reconstruction; remnants of ancient walls enclose it. Its historic settlement pattern and ongoing development shape the place at the same time. The hillside location, with olive trees and views of the River Liri, adds a scenic perspective to its historic character.

Castello Succorte and the history of the town

Castello Succorte was built around the year 1000 and is considered a historic residence of Lazio. Fontana Liri Superiore developed around the castle, which protected the village. The castle and the history of the settlement are therefore closely linked: the approximate date of construction places Castello in its historical context, while its role in the development of the village explains why it is an important point of reference in the town’s history.

A fresco from the first half of the 15th century comes from the hall of Castello Succorte and is kept in the town hall of Fontana Liri. Its creator is unknown. The fresco belongs to a different period from the castle, which was built around the year 1000: both are part of the town’s history, but represent distinctly different eras.

Santa Croce: church and cultural history

The church of Santa Croce incorporates the former church of Sant'Andrea. Its square bell tower was adapted from an older tower. These architectural details show two different forms of historical change: an earlier church building has been incorporated into Santa Croce, while the bell tower originated from an older tower.

A 2021 description mentions the Museum of Europe at Santa Croce, established by Vincenzo Bianchi and dedicated to Michelangelo Buonarroti under the title “I nuovi primitivi”. If you are planning a visit, check the current opening arrangements in advance.

Santa Croce is also connected with film history: in 1971, some scenes for Nino Manfredi’s film “Per grazia ricevuta” were shot there. This connection adds another cultural dimension to the church’s history and art history.

Hillside setting, staircase and nature trail

Fontana Liri Superiore lies on a hill covered with olive trees and offers views of the River Liri. A panoramic staircase with 300 steps connects the town with Fontana Liri Inferiore. The number of steps makes the nature of this connection clear: plan for a staircase route, not a level walkway.

A visitor programme from 2019 mentions a nature trail connecting Santa Croce with Fontana Liri Superiore railway station. If you would like to use this route for your plans, check the current course of the trail in advance.

Events and fountains

Fontana Lirica is a summer event featuring classical music and opera in Fontana Liri Superiore. A 2023 report describes it as a recurring event and gives 22 and 23 July as the dates for its 17th edition.

A 2023 listing describes “Castrum Fontanae – Polenta e non solo …” as the 11th edition of a recurring December event in Piazza Santo Stefano in Fontana Liri Superiore. It mentions polenta with pork ribs and/or broccoli, as well as other dishes, including Neapolitan babà.

Fontana Abballe is the fountain that gives Fontana Liri its name. In December 2022, an inauguration was planned following restoration funded by the Lazio Region with €40,000.

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