Want to learn more about Gaeta, Italy? Read on for facts and info on this historical city located in the province of Latina…
Gaeta is the name of the Italian city that has also acquired the status of commune. The city is situated in the province of Latina which falls within the Lazio region of central Italy. The exact location of Gaeta places it on the cape that stretches towards the gulf of Gaeta. The capital city of Rome is situated at a distance of 120 km from the city. Naples is about 80 km away.
This historical town has played a prominent role in the military history of Italy. The town has fortifications all around it that date back to the Roman times. Certain traces of the early Roman era such as the mausoleum of the Roman general Lucius Muntatius Plancus which dates back to the first century BC. can be found situated on the top of the Monte Orlando.
The fortifications around the city were extended and further strengthened during the 15th century. This served as an important city during the Kingdom of Naples which later became the two Sicily’s. Today Gaeta is popular as the fishing and oil seaport. The Italian government has developed the infrastructure of the region and transformed it into a popular tourist destination. Also situated in Gaeta is a NATO base.
Gaeta in Italy
This ancient city is situated on the slopes of a historic region known as Torre di Orlando. The elevated location provides an overview of the Mediterranean. Over the course of history this city has served as an ancient Ionian colony that belonged to the Samians. During the classical ages the region was famous for its lovely, gentle climate and served as a popular tourist resort. That is why, even in those times, one could find seaside villas that would be visited by the rich citizens from Rome and points beyond. Basically the city served as a resort site and was also linked to the capital of the empire.
Today the city has a large number of historical relics in the form of architectural wonders that attract people from all over the world. Some of the main sites of Gaeta are as follows:
Aragonese-Angevine Castle
This is a massive castle structure that is one of the most stunning castles in the region. Although the origins of the castle are uncertain, it is considered to have been built in the sixth century during the Gothic wars. Historians believe it was constructed for the purpose of defending the town from the invasion by the Lombards. Written records have been found mentioning the name of the castle dating back to 1233, during the time of Frederick II of Hohenstaufen.
The Mausoleum of Lucius Munatius Plancus
This unique architectural structure dates back to 22 BC. It is shaped in the form of a cylinder and has been built using travertine. The monument is situated on the top of Monte Orlando at a height of 168 m. The monument itself is about 13.20 meters and has a diameter of about 29.50 m. This site also has a neighboring mausoleum of another Roman public figure by the name of Lucius Sempronius Atratinus.
The Sanctuary of SS. Trinità
Mention of this sanctuary has been found in historical records dating back to the 11th century AD. It features the Crucifix Chapel that was constructed in 1434. The architect constructed the chapel upon a rock that had accidentally fallen into the vicinity from the nearby cave. The sanctuary is connected to the Grotta del Turco which flows directly into the Adriatic Sea.
Gaeta is the name of the Italian city that has also acquired the status of commune. The city is situated in the province of Latina which falls within the Lazio region of central Italy. The exact location of Gaeta places it on the promontory that stretches towards the gulf of Gaeta. The capital city of Rome is situated at a distance of 120 km from this city. Naples is about 80 km away.
This historical town as played a prominent role in the military history of Italy. The town has fortifications all around it that date back to the Roman times. Certain traces of the early Roman era such as the mausoleum of the Roman general Lucius Muntatius Plancus, which dates back to the first century BC, can be found situated on the top of the Monte Orlando.
The fortifications around the city were extended and further strengthened during the 15th century. It served as an important city during the Kingdom of Naples, which later became the two Sicilies. Today Gaeta as popular as the fishing and oil seaport. The Italian government has developed the infrastructure of the region and transformed it into a popular tourist destination. Also situated in Gaeta is a NATO base.
