The Porta Catena is a relic of the long history of the pretty hillside town of Todi. This ancient gate is part of the great city walls, and today it still offers a significant insight into the past. Walk through the gate, just as thousands have done before you throughout the centuries, and explore the sturdy fortifications which once safeguarded Todi from attacks.
The city of Todi expanded over the centuries, and this is very clearly shown by the concentric city walls which still remain. The innermost walls date to the Etruscan period, around the 3rd century B.C., while the middle walls are of Roman origin. The outer walls date to the medieval period. However, it is along the Roman section of the walls that we find the Porta Catena. Wind your way through the fairy-tale town, along cobbled lanes and hidden backstreets, until you find this distinctive tall, arched gate.
Many of the city’s ancient gates have been long lost, but the Porta Catena is one of the few remaining examples that are still intact. During the Roman period, in the 1st century B.C., the city of Todi gradually grew to include civic buildings, grand villas, thermal baths and impressive temples. The city was then known as Julia Fida Tuder. It was during this time that the second ring of walls was built. Walk through the high, double-arched gate of Porta Catena and past the tightly packed historic buildings as you enter the scenic heart of the old town of Todi.
The Porta Catena is located in the center of the beguiling city of Todi and, like most of the city’s highlights, it is easily accessible by foot. The town can seem like it is a bit of a maze, but just ask any local to point you in the right direction. Alternatively, have fun getting lost amid the labyrinthine lanes of this picturesque place, and remember to look out for the ancient gates as you amble around.
