Thematic
Art and History
Immerse yourself in ancient grandeur: Sant'Erasmo and Monte Torre Maggiore
Duration
One day
Level of difficulty
Medium
Budget
Low
This itinerary offers a fascinating experience that combines breathtaking landscapes and important archaeological evidence in the territory of Terni.
Starting from Cesi, you can follow a marked trail that will lead you to the plateau of Sant'Erasmo, surrounded by lush nature. Here, you can admire the remains of large polygonal walls dating back to the 6th-5th century BC, which surrounded an ancient Umbrian settlement. Two entrances inside the walls are still visible, providing a fascinating glimpse into the pre-Roman history of the region. At the highest point of the plateau a small 12th century Romanesque church dedicated to Sant'Erasmo stands alone.
Continuing along two different paths, you reach Monte Torre Maggiore, which at 1120 meters is the highest peak in the Terni mountain. From here, the view opens up to a vast panorama, offering a sense of profound contemplation. Even at Monte Torre Maggiore, one is immersed in history, with the remains of two temples testifying to the importance of this area as a place of worship for the populations that settled along the slopes of the Martani Mountains. One of the temples dates back to the 6th century BC, while the other is from the 2nd-1st century BC. Access to the sacred area is preserved in travertine and crossing its threshold is an emotional experience that conveys respect for the past. Excavations have brought to light numerous votive bronze statues depicting stylized figures, which testify to the devotion of ancient populations.
At the end of the excursion, we recommend visiting the Archaeological Museum of Terni, where it is possible to admire the votive bronze statues and continue the journey through the precious historical and archaeological evidence found in and around Terni.
THE STAGES OF THE ITINERARY
St. Erasmo archaeological site
The site of St.Erasmo, about 890 metres above sea level, is of remarkable archaeological interest, hosting the remains of huge polygonal walls.
The site of St.Erasmo, about 890 metres above sea level, is of remarkable archaeological interest, hosting the remains of huge polygonal walls.
Torre Maggiore Temples
On the summit of Torre Maggiore, at 1121 above sea level, in a highly suggestive scenario, are the remains of two sanctuaries, respectively from the 6th cent. B.C. and the 2nd. cent. B.C.
On the summit of Torre Maggiore, at 1121 above sea level, in a highly suggestive scenario, are the remains of two sanctuaries, respectively from the 6th cent. B.C. and the 2nd. cent. B.C.
Claudia Giontella Archaeological Museum
The archaeological exhibition is divided into two different sections, pre-Roman and Roman, which tell the story of what was to become the centre of Interamna Nahars in the Roman period, the current city of Terni.
The archaeological exhibition is divided into two different sections, pre-Roman and Roman, which tell the story of what was to become the centre of Interamna Nahars in the Roman period, the current city of Terni.