Lenola, A Brief History

It is said that Lenola's origin can be traced to a Phoenician colony that settled along the coast. These settlers built villages in the mountains, one village named Inola is today's Lenola. During Rome's expansion in the first century, Lenola came under Roman rule. An ancient Roman inscription on a stone preserved in the Town Council indicates that Lenola was assigned to an Emily tribe during this period.

In 846, after the fall of Rome, the Saracenics landed in Sperlonga and Terracina. From there, they made their way into the hinterland where they caused destruction and misery for the villagers. Until the 1500's life in Lenola centered around the Baronial Palace which was situated on the high side of the town and afforded some protection to the villagers.

Between 1600 and 1700 Lenola profited from the founding of the "Sanctuary of the Madonna del Colle" which was situated in the locality known as Colle (altitude 475 meters above sea-level). During this period, the villagers of Lenola lived a relative life of luxury.

During the 1800's roving gangs of bandits spread terror throughout the area robbing and plundering. The most active bandits in Lenola were the brigands of "Chiavone".

From the beginning of the 1900's and especially after World War II, many individuals migrated from Lenola to the United States, Australia, Canada, Germany, Switzerland, and Belgium.

Today the village retains its medieval quality. However, new homes are being built below the medieval town to accomodate people who are moving out of the larger cities. Lenola is a desirable location because the mountain air is refreshing and it is located close to both Fondi, which has regular train service to Rome, and to Terracina, a popular seaside resort.

The above information was taken from a plaque in the square near the Baronial Palace. If anyone has additional information on the history of Lenola, please e-mail me.