Narnia is a real place, although it is not the magical land depicted in C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia. The inspiration for the fictional world of Narnia actually comes from a hill-town in Italy called Narni, which is believed to have existed over 2,000 years ago.
Narni, located in the Umbria region of Central Italy, is approximately 50 miles away from Rome. It is a picturesque town with a rich history and stunning architecture. The town is situated on a hill, overlooking the Nera River, and its ancient stone buildings and narrow streets add to its charm and character.
The connection between Narnia and Narni is not just a coincidence. C.S. Lewis, the author of the Chronicles of Narnia series, was a scholar of medieval literature and drew inspiration from various sources for his fictional world. It is believed that Lewis came across the name Narnia while reading a historical atlas, where he found the Latin name for Narni, “Narnia.”
While Narni may not have talking animals or mythical creatures, it does have its own share of fascinating history and legends. The town was an important Roman settlement and played a significant role during the Middle Ages. It is known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, including an ancient bridge, an amphitheater, and an underground complex called the Narni Sotterranea.
One of the most famous legends associated with Narni is the tale of the “Narni Blacksmith.” According to the legend, a blacksmith named Mastro Giorgio was tasked with forging a massive iron ring for the town’s bell tower. However, he accidentally made the ring too small, and it wouldn’t fit. In a desperate attempt to fix his mistake, Mastro Giorgio made a pact with the devil, who helped him enlarge the ring overnight. The devil’s assistance came at a price, though, as he demanded the soul of the first living being to enter the bell tower. In a twist of fate, it turned out to be a dog that entered the tower first, saving the soul of the blacksmith.
Visiting Narni today, you can still feel the echoes of its rich history. The town is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its medieval architecture, charming streets, and breathtaking views. Exploring the winding alleys, you can imagine yourself stepping into the pages of a fantasy novel, even if the magical elements are purely fictional.
While Narnia is indeed a real place, it refers to the hill-town of Narni in Italy, not the fantastical world depicted by C.S. Lewis. Narni’s historical significance and captivating legends make it an interesting destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the inspiration behind Lewis’ beloved Chronicles of Narnia.