Anagni

Anagni is a town and comune in the Lazio region of central Italy, in the province of Frosinone. It is situated on a hill overlooking the Sacco valley, about 60 to 70 kilometers southeast of Rome. The area has ancient roots; the site was associated with the Roman city Anagnia, founded by the Volsci and later incorporated into the Roman state.

In the Middle Ages Anagni developed as a feudal and ecclesiastical center. The town preserves a compact medieval historic core, still enclosed by walls and towers. Two principal monuments illustrate its medieval character: the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Papal Palace (Palazzo Papale di Bonifacio VIII). The cathedral, dating from the 11th to 13th centuries, showcases subsequent decorative layers, while the papal palace, begun in the 11th century and expanded over time, was a frequent residence of popes and a focal point of papal diplomacy. The palace is linked to one of the most famous episodes in medieval church‑state history, the Outrage of Anagni in 1303, when Pope Boniface VIII was briefly detained by agents of Philip IV of France.

Among other historic features are the town walls, towers, and several churches that reflect Romanesque, Gothic, and early modern architectural influences. The local economy combines agriculture, small industry, and services, with tourism tied to the architectural and historical heritage. Anagni also hosts cultural events that emphasize its medieval legacy and religious history, contributing to its profile as a site of national historical interest.