Gualdo Tadino: Echoes of Umbria's Past
An exploration of an ancient Italian comune, from Roman roads to medieval fortresses.
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The Heart of Umbria
Location and Significance
Gualdo Tadino is an ancient town situated in the province of Perugia, within the northeastern region of Umbria, Italy. It rests upon the lower flanks of Monte Penna, a prominent mountain in the Apennine range. Positioned approximately 47 kilometers (29 miles) northeast of the regional capital, Perugia, Gualdo Tadino is a locale steeped in historical significance and natural beauty.
A Chronicle of Resilience
From Ancient Origins to Medieval Fortifications
Gualdo Tadino boasts a long and dynamic history, originating as an Umbrian village known as Tarsina. Its strategic location led to its conquest by the Romans in 266 BC, after which it was renamed Tadinum and established as a vital station along the Via Flaminia. The town's early existence was marked by significant conflict; it suffered destruction by Hannibal's troops in 217 BC, by Julius Caesar's forces in 41 BC, and by Alaric's Visigoths in 410 AD.
A pivotal moment occurred in 552 AD when the Byzantine general Narses briefly restored imperial control over Italy by defeating the Ostrogoth king Baduila in a battle believed by many scholars to have taken place near the town, in the plain west of Taino. The ancient city, though surviving this war, was later destroyed in 966 AD at the behest of Holy Roman Emperor Otto III. Following its rebuilding, it faced another devastating fire in 1237. Emperor Frederick II ordered its reconstruction for a third time in 1239, establishing the foundation of the Gualdo Tadino that exists today.
This section requires further expansion to fully capture the town's rich historical narrative.
Architectural Heritage
Religious Architecture
Gualdo Tadino is home to several significant religious sites that reflect its long history and artistic traditions:
- Gualdo Tadino Cathedral (Church of St Benedict): This cathedral features an external fountain attributed to the renowned architect Antonio da Sangallo the Elder, dating back to the 16th century.
- San Francesco: A 13th-century church that houses important frescoes by the local artist Matteo da Gualdo, offering a glimpse into medieval Umbrian art.
- San Facondino: An 11th-century pilgrimage church, representing an earlier period of religious architecture in the region.
Secular Architecture
The town's secular heritage is prominently represented by its fortifications and civic structures:
- Rocca Flea: This imposing 12th-century castle stands as the town's primary monument. Its robust structure and historical significance offer insights into the medieval defensive architecture of the region.
Civic Profile
Local Administration
The current administration of Gualdo Tadino is led by Mayor Massimiliano Presciutti.
Key Civic Data
Elevation: 536 meters (1,759 feet) above sea level.
Time Zone: UTC+1 (Central European Time - CET), observed as UTC+2 (Central European Summer Time - CEST) during daylight saving periods.
Postal Code: 06023
Dialing Code: +39
ISTAT Code: 054023 (Italian National Institute of Statistics code for administrative identification).
Demographic Snapshot
Area and Density
Gualdo Tadino covers a total area of 124 square kilometers (48 square miles). This results in a population density of approximately 121 inhabitants per square kilometer (314 inhabitants per square mile), indicating a moderately populated area within its geographical expanse.
Population Figures
As of December 31, 2017, Gualdo Tadino had a resident population of 15,018 individuals. This figure reflects the town's standing as a significant center within the Province of Perugia.
Further Exploration
Official and Informational Resources
For deeper insights into Gualdo Tadino, consult the following resources:
- Official Website: www.gualdo.tadino.it
- Bill Thayer's Gazetteer: Detailed information and historical context.
- Archaeological Notes: Information regarding potential excavations at Taino.
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References
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Important Notice
This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. The content is derived from publicly available data, primarily Wikipedia, and may not represent the most current or exhaustive information available.
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