Ancient city, Latium, central Italy. Praeneste was located on a spur of the Apennines. Founded before the 8th century BC, it saw many battles with Rome before becoming part of the Roman Empire. It was a major centre for the cult of the goddess Fortuna, whose sanctuary and temple oracle were surrounded by an immense complex of buildings. It became a favourite summer resort of wealthy Romans, including Augustus, Hadrian, and Pliny the Younger. The modern town is the birthplace of composer Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina.

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