Pavona: Lacus Turni, Apiolae and Medieval Traces

Pavona and Lacus Turni

Pavona can be understood through the connection between its landscape, ancient past and later historical layers. Pavona’s ancient origins are linked to Lacus Turni, known today as the “laghetto”. The name “laghetto” refers to the present-day lake; Lacus Turni and Lacus Iuturnae are other names for the same body of water. In the Pavona area, Lacus Turni was partially drained in 1611 by Pope Paul V. The partial draining is therefore one of the lake’s later historical changes and adds a clearly dated event to its ancient connection with the area.

Apiolae and Medieval Developments

In archaic times, the Latin city of Apiolae stood on nearby Monte Savello in the Pavona area. At the end of the 7th century BC, Apiolae was destroyed by the king of Rome, Tarquinius Priscus. This destruction marks the end of the city of Apiolae, not the end of the site’s history: the early medieval Domusculta Sulpiciana was later established there. Apiolae and the Domusculta Sulpiciana therefore belong to different historical periods.

Around the 13th century, the Domusculta Sulpiciana became a fief of the Savelli family. The Savelli built their fortress there, which later became known in Rome as “Corte Savella”. The fortress therefore belongs to a later stage in the development of the site where the Domusculta had previously been established.

Further Historical Points of Interest

Another Domusculta in the Pavona area was S. Eufemia, later known as S. Fumia. Both names therefore refer to the same historical complex. Villa Contarini is also one of Pavona’s historical points of interest: the building was originally a monastery and later became the property of the municipality of Albano Laziale. Palazzo Colonna is also located in the surroundings of Pavona. Villa Contarini is therefore located within the town itself, while Palazzo Colonna is in its surrounding area; the two details indicate different geographical contexts.

Local Daily Life and Distinctive Details

Alongside the historical sites, the farmers’ market Mercato Contadino dei Castelli Romani “ColtiVendo” is one of Pavona’s local attractions. Workshops on food education are frequently held there. The workshops therefore provide a distinct connection to food education in Pavona’s everyday life alongside the historical themes. They form a separate subject area alongside the ancient and medieval references.

Another specific local detail is Pavona railway station. It has a total of two tracks for passenger services. The artist Krayon depicted animals on the former changing building of the railway work area. The railway connection is therefore not limited to passenger services: it also includes the former changing building with its animal depictions.

Discover More Places

In addition to Pavona, you can also consider Saracinesco, Roccagiovine, Ciampino, Santa Lucia, Frascati, Fregene, Castel Di Guido and Gerano as additional destinations.

For the broader travel overview: Rome.