Nestled in the enchanting scenery of upper Lazio, almost on the border with Tuscany, Lake Mezzano is an island of peace and green lushness in the territory of Latera.
The area, of volcanic origin, has been inhabited since prehistoric times, as testified by pile-dwelling remains, artefacts made of ceramic, bronze and wood and paleontological finds, resurfaced at a depth of about 10 meters in Lake Mezzano, dated between the 13th and 7th centuries BC.
Today, these precious finds can be admired at the Museum of Prehistory in Tuscia and the Rocca Farnese in Valentano, transporting us back in time.
Numerous historians identify the volcanic lake of Mezzano as the Lacus Statoniensis mentioned by Seneca in his Quaestiones Naturales and described by Pliny in his treatise Naturalis Historia.
Its access, via dusty and unspoilt roads, is reserved exclusively for adventurous walkers, far from human presence and manipulation.
The shores of the lake are surrounded by reeds, which merge with the presence of the Olpeta outlet, creating a wetland environment populated by a rich variety of birds.
The reedbeds are embraced by pasture land and just beyond, the typical tree-covered slopes of volcanic basins rise up. In particular, the forest of Monte Rosso stands out, guarding the remains of Mezzano Castle, of Lombard origin, destroyed during the 14th century.
