Corfinio

Corfinio was an ancient Italic town, located in the Peligna Valley in the Abruzzo region of Italy. During the Social War (91-88 BC), it served as the capital of the Italic peoples who rebelled against Rome. In 90 BC, these rebels, known as the Italici, declared Corfinio the capital of their new state, renaming it Italia. They established their own senate and magistrates there, minting coins bearing the name "Italia."

The choice of Corfinio as the capital reflected its strategic location and defensibility. It commanded a key pass through the Apennine Mountains, controlling access between central and southern Italy.

However, Roman forces besieged Corfinio, and after internal divisions and the betrayal of some of its inhabitants, the city fell to Gnaeus Pompeius Strabo in 89 BC. The Romans treated the city leniently, perhaps recognizing its strategic importance.

After the Social War, Corfinio remained a significant town, though it never regained its brief glory as the capital of Italia. Under the Roman Empire, it became a municipium.

The modern town of Corfinio is located near the site of the ancient city. Archaeological excavations have revealed traces of the ancient walls, temples, and other structures, providing insights into the history of this important Italic center. The area houses archaeological remains and continues to be of historical significance.