Stroncone: Medieval Centre, Museums and Trails

Stroncone: Medieval Centre and Distinctive Local History

Stroncone is best discovered through its well-preserved medieval centre, museums and paths along the town walls. The historic centre has retained its medieval appearance, with narrow, winding streets, stone portals and an old fountain directly within the walls. The Palazzo Comunale dates back to the 13th century. The Chiesa Collegiata San Nicolò is one of the oldest churches in Stroncone and was donated in 1181 by the consuls of Stroncone to the Abbey of San Benedetto in fundis. The Oratorio di San Giovanni Decollato is located to the left of the entrance gate of the ancient castle of Stroncone.

Museums and Sacred Art

The Museo di Storia Naturale can be visited free of charge by prior appointment with the municipality of Stroncone. The Museo dei Corali can also be visited free of charge by prior appointment. It is located in the former Chiesa della Madonna del Gonfalone and displays illuminated parchment codices from the 14th century, originating from the collegiate churches of San Michele Arcangelo and San Nicolò di Stroncone. In the Oratorio di San Giovanni Decollato, Stroncone preserves elaborately executed works by Giuseppe Bastiani, known by the name Giuseppino da Macerata.

Franciscan History

According to tradition, the Convent of St. Francis was founded by Francis of Assisi in 1213. In the 17th century, it became an important centre for theological, historical and scientific studies. Its library is one of the richest Franciscan collections in Umbria. The library can still be visited in its original arrangement, allowing the historical significance of the site to be experienced directly through a tangible visit.

Trails, Views and Historic Festivals

The Sentiero francescano di Stroncone is an old path connecting Stroncone with the hamlet of I Prati. For walks along the fortifications, the Percorso delle Mura Castellane is available: the footpath has viewpoints, two intermediate entrances to the historic centre, a viewing walkway and lighting along the entire town wall. Another aspect of the town’s history is represented by the historic Agosto Stronconese festival. It was established in 1979 to commemorate the transfer of the body of Blessed Antonio, the town’s patron saint, from Assisi to Stroncone. The festival includes the historical re-enactments Rescritto Imperiale and Corteo Storico.

Places to Visit in the Surrounding Area

Interesting cultural and scenic destinations can also be found outside the historic centre. The Museo CAOS is a museum in the area surrounding Stroncone. The Palazzo Bianchini - Riccardi and the Montani Palace are palaces in the surrounding area; the Pinacoteca Comunale "O. Metelli" e "Museo A. De Felice" is located there as a museum. Monte Terminuto and Monte Cimitelle are also nearby, both being mountains. Monte Macchialunga is a mountain in the area surrounding Stroncone, while the Cascata delle Marmore is a waterfall and one of the scenic destinations there. When planning your trip, you can therefore distinguish between medieval architecture, sacred art, museum visits, trails with views and scenic experiences.

Further destinations for orientation: Sismano, Visciano Di Narni, Finocchieto, Casigliano, Toscolano, Ficulle, Alviano, San Vito In Monte

To the higher-level travel overview: Terni.