Fucine Lake (Lago di Fucino) was a large endorheic lake located in the Fucino Plain, in the Abruzzo region of central Italy. Situated about 80 kilometers east of Rome, it was once the third-largest lake in Italy, covering an area of 90 to 140 km². The lake was positioned between the Monte Velino and Monte Sirente mountain ranges, at an altitude of about 600 meters above sea level.
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| Fucine Lake Italy |
History and Drainage Efforts
Fucine Lake has been known since Roman times, referred to as Lacus Fucinus. The Romans attempted to drain the lake to control flooding and mitigate the spread of diseases like malaria, which were common in the marshy areas. Emperor Claudius began the construction of a drainage tunnel through Mount Salviano, which was about 5.6 kilometers long. This ambitious project was completed in 52 AD, but it faced many challenges and did not fully succeed in draining the lake.
In the 19th century, the drainage project was revived by Prince Alessandro Torlonia, who hired Swiss engineer Jean François Mayor de Montricher to construct a new drainage system. Between 1862 and 1878, a 6.3 km canal was built, successfully draining the lake and transforming the area into fertile agricultural land.
Modern Day
Today, the area where Fucine Lake once stood is an agricultural plain. The region is known for its production of crops like the Fucino potato, which is protected by a PGI (Protected Geographical Indication). The transformation of the lakebed into farmland had a significant ecological impact, but it also created one of Italy’s most productive agricultural areas.
Additionally, the Fucino area is home to the Fucino Space Center, which was established in 1963. This center plays a key role in satellite communications.
Visiting the Area
While Fucine Lake no longer exists in its original form, the surrounding area is accessible and offers insight into the region's rich history and modern developments. You can visit nearby towns like Avezzano, Celano, and Pescina, which are located in the vicinity of the former lake. The region is ideal for those interested in both history and rural landscapes, as it offers a peaceful setting to explore.
If you’re interested in exploring the engineering feats of ancient Rome or learning about the modern space-related developments in the area, the Fucino region is a fascinating place to visit.