Discover Portaria

Portaria lies at an elevation of about 450 metres above sea level on the slopes of the Monti Martani. Its hillside setting, historic centre with its fortifications, and distinctive buildings offer different starting points for a trip. There are also two events held at specific times of year, as well as the Carsulae trekking route, which leads to Portaria. You can tailor your stay to your main interest: local history and architecture, a hike, or an event on the calendar.

Local history and historic routes

Portaria’s historic centre has a system of fortifications. Porta Spoletina served as an entrance to the settlement and as a landmark for pilgrims travelling to Spoletium along the Via Flaminia. Porta Romana lies south of Portaria. Thus, Porta Spoletina is associated with access and historic route-finding, while Porta Romana is distinguished by its location south of the town. Portaria was formerly known as Porcaria; the name is probably associated with pig pastures in the area. This clue in the name adds an indication of former land use to the architectural evidence.

Squares, tower and church

On Piazza Giuseppe Verdi, squares of travertine lie alongside bricks laid in a herringbone pattern. The changing direction of the bricks creates the pattern, while the travertine squares form a separate paving element. The choice of materials and laying patterns can therefore be distinguished in the square.

The Torre dell'Orologio dates from 1200 and was restored in 1600 and 1967. A raised section rises above the tower; battlements and a spire containing the bell crown it. The dates and restorations provide a chronology, while the upper structures describe its specific form.

The Church of Santi Filippo e Giacomo was built on an existing building. This adds a different architectural reference: the church is notable for having been built over an existing structure, while the Torre dell'Orologio is notable for its dates and restorations.

Trekking route and landscape

The trekking route from Carsulae to Portaria passes through Macerino and Cancelli; after the Cima-Forca Pass, it descends to Portaria. Check local conditions before setting out. Another trace of the landscape is the Strada delle Pecore, an old transhumance route that runs through Portaria. It represents a historic use of the landscape, whereas the Carsulae route is designated as a trekking route. The two routes therefore differ in purpose: one is a trekking route to Portaria, the other an old transhumance route.

Events in May and July

On the second weekend of May, Portaria stages a reenactment of Lucrezia Borgia’s arrival in 1499. If you would like to plan your visit around this date, check the programme for the relevant year.

The grain threshing demonstration TREBBIATURA DE 'NA VORDA has been held in the first half of July for several years and involves local residents. It includes threshing with a historic threshing machine and the construction of a pajaro. The two events differ both in timing and subject: May focuses on a historical scene, while July features the grain threshing demonstration and its traditional activities. For specific travel planning, check the programme for the relevant year.

For the broader travel overview: Terni.