History
Cassino's origins lie in the Volscan settlement of Casinum, at the base of the nearby Monte Cairo. Casinum passed under the control of the Samnites, but the Romans eventually gained control of Casinum, establishing a colony there in 312 BC. At least once during Punic Wars, Hannibal passed near Casinum. Casinum was also the site of a villa belonging to Marcus Terentius Varro.
The modern town which arose on the site of the ancient town of Casinum was called San Germano, but on 28 July 1863 the name was officially reverted to "Cassino".
The terrain is characterized by rolling green hills, vineyards, and rivers . Because of its valley location, it is often foggy in the winter, with chilly rainfall. Summers are generally quite warm and humid.
The site of fierce fighting during the Battles of Monte Cassino during World War II, the old town was almost completely destroyed and was rebuilt south-east of its prior location in a relatively short space of time. Because of this, and despite the recent construction of a large number of new roads and roundabouts, the town has a somewhat disorderly road network. The city is developing commercially as well, following the construction of many shopping centres in the environs, which, however, also increase traffic congestion, particularly on the roads leading into the city.
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