Force is a hilly town founded in the early Middle Ages. The only remaining ruin of the original fortifications is the watchtower dating back to the earliest settlement. Must see attractions are are: the church of San Paolo, founded by the Farfa monks and extensively later renovated, and the well-preserved Priorato Palace, which boasts a beautiful 16th-century loggia. The municipal palace and the church of San Francesco, restored in the 19th century by the architect Sacconi, are also noteworthy.
Force owes a certain notoriety to the artistic copper craftsmanship: talented coppersmiths have been forging copper objects for domestic and ornamental use for over half a millennium. A characteristic of the coppersmiths of the past was their language, known as "baccaiamento," rich in numerous words, many of which have been forgotten. Tradition says that this language has been devised by the coppersmiths to communicate during fairs and markets and to prevent their conversations from being overheard by indiscreet ears. The Copper Museum is dedicated to their art.
The historic Palazzo Canestrari houses the Museum of Holy Art ce, where precious artistic artifacts from the local churches are kept, particularly works by De Magistris.
The Church of San Paolo Apostolo houses a crucifix considered miraculous. In August, the Feast of the Crucifix is dedicated to it. We must also mention the festival of "penne al tartufo" (pasta with truffles) and porcini mushrooms. In July, the "sagra della cacciannanze" is held, featuring a rustic pizza served plain or with toppings.
To relive the past, in August you can't miss the three days "Ancient Flavors through the Streets of the Village." festival. During the event, in addition to rediscovering the scents and flavors of the past, visitors will experience the art of the coppersmiths with the reopening of the ancient artisan workshops and the copper craftsmanship. At Christmas, a large and artistically significant nativity scene is set up in the caves beneath the monumental church of San Francesco.
