Summary
Narni is a small hill town of around 20,000 people located in the Italian province of Terni on the southern boundary of the Umbria region, very near the exact geographical center of Italy.
A Short History of Narni or Narnia
Although there is evidence of Neolithic remains in the area, the first historical document we know of is dated 600 B.C., where Nequinum is mentioned. In 299, we know the town as Narnia, a Roman colony. The name comes from the nearby Nar River, which is called the Nera today. Narni rose in importance with the construction of the Via Flaminia from Rome to Rimini. In the 12th and 14th centuries, Narni became part of the Papal State and developed an important school of painting and goldsmiths.
Getting to Narni by Train
Narni can be reached on the Rome to Ancona train line. The Rome to Florence line stops in Orte, where you can get a connection. The Narni station is located outside of town but is served by local bus services.
Getting to Narni by Car
The A1 Autostrada del Sole is the fast (and relatively expensive) way to get to Narni from Rome, exiting at Orte for the Orte-Terni connecting road. Alternatively, the E45 route provides a free option that travels from Terni to Cresena.
Regional Events in Narni
Umbria Travel offers a limited Calendar of Events for Narni, showcasing various local happenings and celebrations throughout the year.
Interesting Festival in Narni
In Narni, from April 25 to the following weekend, the Corsa all’Anello takes place. This traditional feast has its roots in the Middle Ages and is organized in honor of Patron St. Giovanale. During the festival, young participants from the ancient quarters, dressed in traditional costume, compete to run a spear through a ring held by ropes extending through the buildings of Via Maggiore.
What About C.S. Lewis’ Narnia?
Over 50 years ago, C. S. Lewis invented a fantasy land known as Narnia. Speculation indicates that Lewis might have discovered the name (Narnia) in an atlas as a child or encountered it in his university studies.
It has been said that Lewis discovered the name (Narnia) in an atlas as a child, though he may also have come across mention of the city in his university studies.
Interestingly, the modern-day town of Narni honors a local saint known as “Blessed Lucy of Narnia.” Today, the town’s Cathedral of Narnia adjoins a shrine dedicated to this St. Lucy.
Staying in Narni
For its size, Narni offers many accommodation options, with prices that can be quite reasonable. Some accommodations are situated just outside of town in the beautiful countryside, so consider the location if you prefer to stay right in the heart of Narni.
Narni Attractions
Narni boasts a number of notable buildings and attractions:
- The Cathedral
- Church of San Francesco (13th century)
- Palazzo dei Priori (1275)
- Palazzo Comunale (1273)
- Church of Santa Maria Impensole (1175)
- Torri dei Marzi (1400)
- Palazzo Scotti (1500)
- Underground of San Domenico (13th century)
- Church of Santa Maria Maggiore (1400)
- Palazzo Vescovile (Bishop’s Palace)
- Palazzo Arca-Corsini
- Church of Santa Restituita
- Palazzo Cardoli (15th century)
- Opera Beata Lucia (1700)
- Palazzo Capocaccia (1545)
- Church of Sant’Agostino (14th century)
- Church of Santa Margherita (1600)
- Albornoz Castle (1370)
- Fonte di Feronia
Additionally, there’s an interesting walking path leading out of town to the 1st-century Ponte Cardona, which is part of the Roman Aqueduct Formina. As you stroll along this wooded route, you will also encounter the geographical center of Italy benchmark.
Further afield, to the west, lie the intriguing ruins of Ocriculum, close to the modern town of Otricoli.
If you enjoy visiting historical ruins, particularly underground sites, Narni hosts a volunteer group called Subterranea that offers tours. Their website has extensive information about the various attractions you can explore.
Moreover, the nearby cities of Terni and Orte are also fascinating destinations worth exploring.
