Amiternum
Part of The Encyclopedia of Southern Italy.
Amiternum (It. Aminterno): An ancient Sabine city located on the river Ateno, on the site of the modern frazione of San Vittorino (AQ), about 9 km NW of L’Aquila. It was occupied by the Romans in 293 BC and developed into t a thriving community for centuries afterward. It was at the height of its prosperity during under the Empire and many of its finest buildings and monuments date to this period. Amiternum was the birthplace of the historian Sallust (c86-35 BC). An ancient diocese was established here which survived until Lombard times.
Beneath the modern church of S. Michele are the remains of ancient catacombs which include the 3rd-4th century tomb of the martyr S. Vittorino (often incorrectly named as a bishop of Amiternum). Archaeologists have also discovered the ancient remains of a theater, an amphitheater, and another building of uncertain use but which was decorated with frescoes and mosaics.