Fumone

Fumone, a village perched on a cone-shaped hill, has immaculate cobbled streets lined with stone houses. For three centuries, the marquises Longhi De Paolis were the guardians of a medieval stronghold that has been well preserved over time. Today the castle is open to visitors, who can admire the many heirlooms and furnishings, mainly from the 19th century. Inside it is the cell where Pope Celestino V was imprisoned in 1296. The cell, mentioned also by the poet Dante, is so small that the pontiff, who died here after ten months, is said to have used the altar step as a pillow. Also worth visiting are the wonderful hanging gardens, built on the vaults of the castle walkways and in the available spaces in the moat and between the towers. The gardens also have a splendid panoramic view, stretching from the Alban hills to the Itri valley.