There is a connection between C.S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia and the ancient town of Narni in Umbria (Italy), and it is rooted in the town’s historical significance. Narni, originally known by its Latin name Narnia, served as an inspiration for the name of the fictional land of Narnia, even though Lewis never visited the town.
Lewis encountered the name “Narnia” in a Latin atlas during his childhood, sparking his imagination. The town’s rich history, which dates back to Roman times, fascinated him. Narnia appears in ancient Roman texts, referenced by writers like Livy and Tacitus, which Lewis likely encountered during his classical studies at Oxford and Cambridge. This helped solidify his use of the name for the fantastical world in his books
Narni itself is a picturesque medieval town perched on a hill, overlooking the Nera river gorge, and is known for its blend of ancient and medieval history. The town boasts remnants of Roman architecture, medieval fortresses, and an extensive underground area that was only rediscovered in the 1970s, further adding to its mysterious and enchanting allure
Although the landscapes of Lewis’ Narnia are largely imaginary, some elements of the real Narni seem to resonate with the fictional realm. For example, the discovery of an ancient stone table near Narni mirrors the one in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, where Aslan sacrifices himself. This parallel suggests that Narni’s history and geography may have influenced Lewis more deeply than just its name, but it’s chronologically not possible.
Narni citizens however are trying to embrace the connection to C.S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia in various charming ways. Many shops in Narni now capitalize on this association, offering products and souvenirs inspired by the beloved book series. Visitors can find items that reference the world of Narnia, further deepening the magical atmosphere of the town
One of the most intriguing features of Narni is Narni Sotterranea (Underground Narni), a mysterious underground world discovered by four young boys in 1979. The manner of their discovery, entering through an opening in a wall, evokes imagery similar to the magical wardrobe entrance from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
While the underground world of Narni might evoke images of magic and fantasy, it is far from the enchanted realm of C.S. Lewis’ Narnia. Narni Sotterranea is steeped in a dark and somber history, having served as a location where the Holy Inquisition held trials for those accused of crimes against religion. In these secret chambers, individuals were imprisoned and interrogated, and evidence of their suffering remains etched into the walls of the cells. The underground complex, rediscovered by chance in 1979, reveals a haunting past that starkly contrasts with the magical allure of Lewis’ stories
This combination of historical intrigue and literary connections makes Narni a fascinating destination for both history enthusiasts and fans of Lewis’ works. The town itself, with its medieval charm and the underground mysteries, seems almost like a portal to another world, much like the world of Narnia.