Monterano: The Abandoned Ghost Town Near Rome
Monterano, an abandoned ghost town near Rome, has become a hidden gem for those seeking escape from the city's overwhelming tourism. Once a thriving settlement with Etruscan, Roman, Renaissance, and Baroque layers, it was deserted over two centuries ago. Its centerpiece is an octagonal fountain by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, commissioned by Pope Clement X. The site features the Palazzo Baronale, the Church and Convent of San Bonaventura, Etruscan tombs repurposed as cellars, and a restored ancient aqueduct. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 drew a parallel between the 'death' of this abandoned town and the 'dying' vitality of Rome, overrun by tourists. The article is part of Artribune's 'Italia fantasma' series exploring abandoned Italian places, written by Luca Cantore D'Amore.
Key facts
- Monterano is an abandoned ghost town near Rome, deserted for over two centuries.
- The town features a fountain by Gian Lorenzo Bernini commissioned by Pope Clement X.
- Monterano has Etruscan, Roman, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural layers.
- Key structures include the Palazzo Baronale and the Church of San Bonaventura.
- Etruscan tombs have been repurposed as cellars.
- The ancient aqueduct has been recently restored.
- The article compares the 'death' of Monterano to the 'dying' state of Rome due to overtourism.
- The piece is part of Artribune's 'Italia fantasma' series by Luca Cantore D'Amore.
Entities
Artists
- Gian Lorenzo Bernini
- Paolo Sorrentino
- Banksy
- Luca Cantore D'Amore
Institutions
- Artribune
- Politecnico di Milano
Locations
- Monterano
- Rome
- Italy
- Vatican City
- Trastevere
- Venice
- Naples
- Istanbul
- New York
- London
- Tunis