CANINO, THE LAND OF OLIVE OIL, IMMERSED IN THE VITERBO MAREMMA

Canino is a small town in Tuscia located a few kilometers from the sea and at the border with Tuscany. Most likely, the origin of the name comes from the gens Canina, a noble lineage from Etruscan times.

CANINO, THE LAND OF OLIVE OIL, IMMERSED IN THE VITERBO MAREMMA

The landscapes surrounding the town are characterized by hills and elevations rich in vineyards and olive groves. The region is renowned for its production of high-quality olive oil and wines of great fame.

The small village in Upper Lazio is certainly known for the abundance of elegant architecture, remarkable works of art, palaces, and monuments that testify to its past history. At the heart of the town among the most interesting buildings is the Town Hall built in 1696, the Miccinelli Palace from the second half of the 15th century, the Bonaparte Palace attributed to the architect Valadier, the Theater built in the second half of the 19th century, and the National Archaeological Museum of Canino, which houses ancient objects and utensils discovered near the Lazio town. In Piazza de Andreis, the beautiful Vignola Fountain deserves special attention.

The main churches to visit include: the Church of Santa Croce, the Collegiate Church of Saints John and Andrew, which houses the “Bonaparte Chapel,” the Convent of San Francesco, the Church of Santa Maria della Neve, the Church of Madonna del Suffragio, the Church of Madonna delle Mosse, and outside the settlement, the ruins of the ancient Church of Madonna del Tufo.

Just outside the town stands the Castellardo, a fortification dating back to the 11th-12th century. Few ruins of its original structure remain, but its history is incredibly intriguing. The castle was subject to disputes between Viterbo and Tuscania and remained under Church possession until 1337. In 1354, it came under the ownership of Montefiascone and later the Orsini di Bracciano, until it was destroyed by the Caninesi in 1459.

Immersed in greenery and nature, you can discover the Vulci Oasis, a protected area created by WWF, which extends along the Fiora River. Not far from here, you’ll find Lake Pellicone, a body of water with a small waterfall, completely surrounded by volcanic rock walls and pristine vegetation. It’s a true oasis of peace for those who venture through the paths of the Vulci Archaeological Park, discovering the excavations of the ancient city and the beautiful tombs in the area.

Today, Canino, with its 700 hectares of olive groves, is known as the City of Olive Oil for its production of extra virgin olive oil, a certified top-quality product with the DOP label. The history of the town’s oil dates back to ancient times, as evidenced by the presence of millennium-old olive trees in the area. Numerous archaeological finds from Etruscan times, such as pottery and frescoes depicting olive harvesting scenes, suggest that olive cultivation was introduced by the Etruscan population. The town’s most important event is the Olive Festival, which takes place around December 8th, when the production and olive harvesting season reaches its peak.

The Canino Asparagus

Canino also lends its name to a particular type of asparagus, known to the locals as “Mangiatutto” (Eat-all), because nothing is wasted in its preparation. The Canino asparagus is notably early and is harvested as early as January. It is also a highlight of various local gastronomic events, including the Asparagus Festival usually held in the first week of April. The patronal feast takes place in September and is dedicated to San Clemente.