The Municipality of Norma and the ancient city of Norba
It's a Saturday at the end of August. The heat is intense and not even the generous shade of the large trees offers the pleasure of a moderate refreshment. At times a small hint of wind is perceived. However, the day lends itself wonderfully to take a small trip to discover one of the many jewels present in our territory. The wonder of our country also lies in this great fortune. It is enough to move a few kilometers from your home to reach a place where you can find history, art, food, traditions and beauty.
I had often heard of the small town of Norma, precious for the panorama it enjoys over the whole Pontine countryside, and of the archaeological remains of Ancient Norba. A city that existed more than 2.400 years ago. I had also heard that from the natural terrace of the area surrounding the town, paragliding enthusiasts take flight by exploiting the air currents. I thought then that this place should be windy. A backpack, a bottle of frozen water and off to the discovery of these treasures.
The charm of the past
Its remains of the ancient city of Norba tell of an imposing and fortified city. Designed by skilled engineers, the huge walls give off an ancestral charm, watching them is enchanting. The main road that crossed the whole city made of smooth limestone is still visible. Walking on it has a certain effect. How many people walked there at the time? Probably all the life of the city was centered along this artery. Today it is also possible to distinguish orderly areas that resemble rooms or thermal baths. The passing of the years has left very little. Perhaps the great charm of this place is given precisely by the heavy imprint of time. The Ancient Norba ended in 81 BC. Its inhabitants set fire to the city in order not to fall prisoner of the enemies, destroying it completely. Ancient Norba was rebuilt. Around the year 1000 the current Norma was born on the nearby cliff and remained a possession of the rich and powerful families of the time, developing as a medieval village, with houses all crowded together and narrow and steep alleys. The first houses outside the medieval walls were built in the second half of the nineteenth century.
Today many houses are uninhabited and many others have become a holiday resort for those who are originally from the country and return pleasantly only in summer. Among the alleys that slope down towards the sea you can see the immense panorama that on cold and clear winter days offers an imposing spectacle over the whole Agro Pontino. Moving your gaze from the horizon towards the plain surrounding the mountain where Norma stands, you can see Ninfa. Oasis of immense beauty where nature. History and legend come together giving life to a magical place unique in the world, which has become a naturalistic monument since 2000, and not surprisingly defined by The New York Times the most beautiful garden in the world.
Local quality products
Norma not only offers history, nature and breathtaking views, the excellent raw materials that its territory produces are skilfully used in the preparation of local products and recipes of absolute culinary respect. In recent years, the awareness of the Normans on the value of their food and typical products of the area has grown. Small restaurants within the village have begun to flourish, or farmhouses in the surrounding countryside where you can enjoy the local cuisine.
At the end of October, for example, with late autumn, Norma offers a great opportunity to organize a visit: the Chestnut Festival !!!
