enazzano is situated on the southern slopes of Monti Prenestini, overlooking the valley of Valle del Sacco, 30 miles south of Rome. The rolling hills here are covered with chestnut and olive trees. Genazzano is a very ancient town. It was probably built on the site of the ancient Praesidium Genucianum, a garrison that belonged to Gens Genucia. Other sources trace its name back to Ginnasiano, the gymnastics games that were held in an ancient Roman villa situated to the northeast of the current town.
Genazzano's isolated position gives this town a characteristic feel of intimacy, while the Sanctuary of the Miraculous Virgin makes it a peaceful, serene oasis. Its fertile countryside yields excellent wines and sundry fruit varieties.
Vast areas of Genazzano's territory are planted with vines that yield a highly prized wine despite stern competition from the Castelli and Olevano Romano wines produced in bordering territories. Winegrowing has always been one of the most important activities at Genazzano. Most of the town's inhabitants, in fact, have been making a living growing vines since the Middle Ages.
The area where Genazzano D.O.C. is produced extends between the provinces of Rome and Frosinone. Only one white and one red wine can be made under this appellation. The white is obtained from a combination of Malvasia di Candia, Bellone and Bombino grapes, while the red can be made with Sangiovese and a small proportion of Cesanese, another typical grape variety grown here.
This page was written by Stefano Milioni. Background image and most photos in this section courtesy of Giuliano Bugialli, all right reserved (see Copyright and Credits).
enazzano is situated on the southern slopes of Monti Prenestini, overlooking the valley of Valle del Sacco, 30 miles south of Rome. The rolling hills here are covered with chestnut and olive trees. Genazzano is a very ancient town. It was probably built on the site of the ancient Praesidium Genucianum, a garrison that belonged to Gens Genucia. Other sources trace its name back to Ginnasiano, the gymnastics games that were held in an ancient Roman villa situated to the northeast of the current town.
Genazzano's isolated position gives this town a characteristic feel of intimacy, while the Sanctuary of the Miraculous Virgin makes it a peaceful, serene oasis. Its fertile countryside yields excellent wines and sundry fruit varieties.