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Spiritual sites
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Pagina miniata ”lo sposalizio della Vergine” Abbazia di Asciano (SI)
| A part a lot consisting of the history, the culture, the identity of the Latium population... |
A sizeable part of the history, culture and identity of the population of Latium is contained in the remarkable network of paths of faith and devoutness that are interwoven throughout the region. The Sanctuaries interspersed throughout the province of Rome testify to the close tie between daily life and religious practice that have marked the evolution of its people for centuries. Franciscan retreats and Benedictine abbeys complete the picture and show how the search for spirituality was always accompanied by a continuous effort to improve the conditions of labour and life and how the Benedictine rule "ora et labora" was recited. Visiting abbeys and sanctuaries if of particular significance because of the vast symbolic contents they hold: devotional practice, the path that is often a discovery of places and communities, the exchange of experiences and knowledge. For all of, but not only for these good reasons, we herewith invite you to visit places of worship in the province of Rome.luoghi dello spirito - soul places
Let us begin our itinerary from a place, where immeasurable proof of the life and works of St. Benedict are concentrated. We are in the Aniene Valley, in the Park of the Simbruini Mountains, the largest protected area in Latium and one of the largest natural parks in Italy. It is also known as "Valle Santa" (Holy Valleys) due to the large number of monastic buildings. The glory and religious and artistic fame of this area are linked to the faith and hard work of St. Benedict and thus, also, to Subiaco (74 km from Rome) and its famous monasteries. The first one encountered is that of St. Scolastica, with its Roman bell tower, three fabulous cloisters and an abundant library. The most modern part of the complex is the façade, reconstructed after the bombings of the last war; the oldest part is the bell tower that dates back to the 9th century. Not far beyond this, set against Mount Taleo, there is the monastery of St. Benedict, a massive complex of buildings that rises above nine high arches; it seems miraculous that this complex, gripping the rock as it does, can support itself. The two churches, superimposed and excavated into the rock, the frescoes from the Umbrian and Sienese schools that contribute to creating a mystic atmosphere, and the grotto of the Sacred Cavern require close scrutiny.
Remaining in this area, another objective of devout pilgrimages is the Sanctuary of the Trinity Saints in Vallepietra (96 km from Rome), which has been partially dug into the rocky walls of Mount Autore at a height of 1300 m. A very suggestive pilgrimage is the one to the Sanctuary that is carried out on the Sunday after The Pentecost. From the heights of a majestic altar, there is a celebration of the "pianta delle zitelle", a characteristic rite in which young girls dressed in white robes offer a suggestive representation of the Passion of Christ. In the narrowest point of the Aniene Valley, 2 km from Vicovaro (46 km from Rome), in an area already patronised by hermits in the 5th century, rises the Convent of St. Cosimato. Here one can admire frescoes from the 15th century and a gothic-style chapel with a cross vault. Having left Vicovaro, we pass on into the part in which the Aniene Valley broadens out and have the possibility of going in two directions: one towards the Sanctuary of St. Anatolia in Gerano (53 km from Rome), the aim of many pilgrimages and where remnants of Roman tombs from the 2nd century B.C. can be viewed, and the other towards the Sanctuary of the Mentorella in Guadagnolo, the highest lying town in the province (1218 m.). This Sanctuary is looked after by the Polish Resurrectionist Fathers and is the oldest dedicated to the Madonna.luoghi dello spirito - soul places
Following our route, we turn towards the Arcinazzo Plateau and reach Bellegra (64 km from Rome), located between the Sacco and Aniene Valleys. About 2 km from the populated area lies the Retreat of St. Francis, in a place marked by a mystical silence; the saint stayed here during his pilgrimage to Subiaco; even today, the Friar Minors host all those seeking inner peace. Remaining in the Sacco Valley, we find the Sanctuary of the "Madonna del Buon Consiglio" in Genazzano (47 km from Rome). Of special interest is a visit to the museum of sacred art works in an annex and to the Nymphaeum by Bramante. At Palombara Sabina (37 km from Rome) one can see the Abbey of St. John in Argentella, a Basilian foundation, thereafter Benedictine, this having been a period from which highly valued architectonic and pictorial vestiges remain. The abbey stands out among the beautiful olive groves not far from the inhabited area. Continuing our route in search of significant places of worship, we reach the most noteworthy area of the province: the "Castelli Romani". Let us begin with the Sanctuary of Divine Love in Via Ardeatina. Although this Sanctuary lies on the borderline of the area, it deserves special mention because it is the destination of over one million pilgrims who come here each year on foot and by night, with the hope of a blessing or miracle. One km from Ariccia (27 km from Rome) stands the Sanctuary of St. Mary's in Galloro, whose restoration was entrusted to Bernini. The Sanctuary of the Madonna del Tufo, near Ariccia, owes its construction to a miracle, which occurred in Medieval times. The story goes that a huge mass broke off from Mount Cavo, grazed a passer-by, who, as recognition for his escape from danger, had a chapel dedicated to the Madonna built. The Abbacy of St. Nilo in Grottaferrata (21 km from Rome) is the only place of Greek orthodox worship in the province. It was founded in about 1004 by the Calabrian, Basilian monks, Nilo and Bartolomeo. Located inside a magnificent castle, the complex is composed of the abbatial Palace, a print shop, a small village and a garden, one of Sangallo's works, and the abbatial basilica. The abbatial collection of artistic works comprises noteworthy archaeological findings, the Library with manuscripts from the 11th century, written by St. Nilo, and the most antique collection of Byzantine liturgical music. Also of great interest is the chapel of the Sainted founders. The hermitage of Camaldoli in Monteporzio Catone (25 km from Rome), situated at a height of 500 m. and near the ruins of the ancient Roman theatre of Tuscolo is also remarkable.
Let us now change areas and move northwest of Roma, into the pastoral, untamed environment of the Tolfa Mountains. Here, at a distance of 2 kilometres from Allumiere (75 km from Rome) we find the Hermitage of the Trinity, the oldest sanctuary in this area, which may date back to the 9th century A.D. and where legend has it that St. Augustine wrote «De Trinitate». Not far away stands the Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Grazie that dates back to the 1700s and is the goal of numerous pilgrimages; in 1986, the image of the Madonna was crowned by Pope John Paul II. The Hermitage at Montevirginio, a few kilometres from the Monterano Canal (51 km from Rome), is an impressive, rectangular-shaped construction with a spacious cloister connected to five solitary places and surrounded by well-preserved walls. Reaching the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Sorbo, in Campagnano of Roma (33 km from Rome), we find ourselves in the Tiber Valley Built by the Orsinis in the 15th century, this Sanctuary is also the goal of pilgrimages. The painting of the Madonna with child, which dates back to the 16th century, is of considerable importance. Sunk into the slopes of Mount Soratte, the Sanctuary of St.Silvestro is one of the first Benedictine coenobies. It is built of irregular blocks of calcareous stone and has notable frescoes on its walls, some of which date back to the 12th century. Some verses by Dante are engraved above the entrance portal. The Abbacy of Sant'Andrea in Flumine, 3 km. from Ponzano Romano (52 km from Rome), rises strategically at an elevation from which it towers over the valley comprised between Mount Soratte and the Tiber River. Founded by the Benedictines, the inside has three naves with granite columns and semi-columns, and Ionic and Corinthian capitals, whereas the floor is in Cosmati-style marble.
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Land and water
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Lago di Bracciano
| Rich natural history atmospheres, traditions, culture and art... |
The province of Rome offers its captivating landscapes, featuring natural environments, rich in history, tradition, culture and art, from parks to natural reserves, charming and unpredictable like the territory in which they are found. Here there are lakes set among woods, vineyards, olive groves and towns of extraordinary historical and artistic interest and a sandy coastline, though sometimes rocky, full of pleasant surprises.
This harmonious fusion of earth and water in the province of Rome engages and fascinates visitors who can choose the destinations that best satisfy their interests and expectations from among the various proposals offered.
Lakes
terra e acqua - ground and water
The lakes in the province of Rome constitute an extraordinary combination of several elements, all to be enjoyed: from the gentle climate, moderated by the movement of the waters, to the vegetation and polychromatic flowers that embellish the shoreline, from untainted landscapes to the most animated and hospitable tourist centres, from practicing sports that have modern facilities available almost everywhere to a simple outing into the natural ambiences of incomparable beauty. Take up our invitation to discover the lakes scattered throughout our province. Barely 12 km southeast of Rome, in the Colli Albani area, in an incredibly beautiful environment, the two breathtaking lakes of Albano and Nemi are set among woods, vineyards and olive groves. Lake Albano is located 293 meters above sea level in a basin formed by two craters from the old Latium volcano. The shores are quite steep and sheer almost everywhere. During the imperial age, many villas arose here and numerous remnants are still preserved. Thanks to the exceptional stability of its waters, Lake Albano is an ideal centre for boat racing and canoe competitions; along the shoreline, there are hotels, typical restaurants, bathing and sports facilities. The lake in Nemi also originated from a volcano and owes its fame to the discovery of two of Caligula's ships, which were recovered in about the 1930s, but unfortunately destroyed by wartime events in 1944. The Museum of Roman Ships is based here and is extremely interesting because it preserves the documentation of Roman naval techniques as well as many archaeological findings; two accurate models of ships are also exhibited here. The natural beauties and landscapes, historical and cultural legacies and the archaeological and artistic heritage are all elements that make Lake Bracciano a much appreciated tourist destination. The perimeter of the lake (the second largest in Latium) is viable along the circumnavigating lake road that connects the three coastal centres of Bracciano, Trevignano Romano and Anguillara Sabazia. The entire area of Lake Bracciano is efficiently organised for sail-boating and wind-surfing. One should also visit the Historical Air Force Museum in Vigna di Valle. Lake Martignano, about 2 km away from Lake Bracciano, is a picturesque oasis: the lack of inhabited centres on the shores and of main roads in the immediate vicinity have until now allowed for the preservation of the rich, natural environment despite the short distance from Rome.
The shoreline
terra e acqua - ground and water
The province of Rome has over 100 kilometres of coastline with mostly long expanses of beaches, where a profusion of bathing establishments alternate along the coast from Civitavecchia to Nettuno. A unique heritage of monuments and beauties of nature mix with the newness of modern tourist facilities in areas where large-scale tourism exists as well as cradles of excellent food and even better drink, and that understanding of leisure time that only thousands of years of civilisation knows how to bequeath. Rome, capital of western civilisation and international tourism, thrives on this. The itinerary starts in the northwest section of the province in Civitavecchia, ancient Centumcellae, whose harbour was founded by Emperor Trajan in the 2nd century B.C. This harbour became one of the main docks of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Today Civitavecchia is the largest maritime centre for Sardinia and the central Italian regions, a well-known cruise port as well as being a departure point for shipping lines going to Cagliari and Olbia. Following the coast, level with Cape Linaro, we find Santa Marinella, a charming bathing and residential town, famous for the greenhouse cultivation of flowers, particularly carnations. A little farther on lies Santa Severa, the ancient Greek-Etruscan port of Pyrgi, as testified by some splendid ruins, the imposing Odescalchi Castle and its wooden suspension bridge, the cylindrical Norman tower and triple walls. Then we enter Fiumicino, which arose in the 1800s as a fishing village. Today this town is a strategic point due to both the dockyard for thousands of pleasure boats and the international airport. Nearby lies Ostia, the beach of the Romans, a true city within a city. Castel Porziano is the summer residence of the President of the Republic. Continuing south we find Lavinio, another bathing centre of recent construction, surrounded by a relevant Mediterranean shrub: the natural reserve of Tor Caldara. Further on we have Anzio, an important port, equipped with services for the Pontine Islands, which was where the Roman emperors spent their holidays as well as where Caligula and Nero were born. The itinerary along the provincial coast has reached its end: we have arrived at Nettuno, the last bathing town on the borders of the province of Latina. Nettuno is equipped with a modern, very well fitted out naval yard that offers over 800 births for boats and services thereto. The characteristic medieval village and Fort Sangallo are of great interest. The latter is a remarkable example of military architecture. Not to be forgotten is the Astura Tower, which is connected to the mainland by a bridge and where the ruins of a Roman villa can be seen.
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Smells and tastes
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Roman Kitchen, wines, olive oil and fromages...
Roman Kitchen
profumi e sapori - scents and flavours
Roman cuisine most assuredly occupies one of the uppermost places among regional cuisines and mainly owes its popularity to the genuineness of the fruits of the earth. First among these are its wines, olive oils and cheeses. In fact, one cannot fully enjoy one of the specialities of the cuisine in our province without coupling it with a wine from the Castelli Romani, Olevano Romano, Capena, Cerveteri, or Genazzano and without using the most suitable local products, with which the cuisine was born and bred. Some areas are historically specialised in the production of singular spices; for example, carrots are prevalently cultivated in the Maccarese area and intended for national and foreign markets. Artichokes are also characteristically cultivated in this province, in particular in Cerveteri and Ladispoli, and include the type called "romanesco". Other typical products are the Roman spring lamb, roast sucking pig from Ariccia, Roman hazelnuts, the delicate hazelnut, chestnuts from Cave and homemade bread from Genzano. To complete the overview of products typical of the province, we recall the wild strawberries from Nemi, cherries from Palombara Sabina, "pizzutello" or table grapes from Tivoli, bread from Lariano, the "pupazze" from Frascati, delicious biscuits shaped like women, fava beans from the Roman countryside, a basic ingredient for a typically Roman dish, appreciated by everyone ? fava beans and pecorino cheese -, large table olives from S.Gregorio da Sassola, chestnuts from Tolfa and Cave, Roman ham that, together with melon, gives rise to a flavourful dish typical of Roman cuisine, called "prosciutto e melone", the "fallacciano" fig from Bellegra, hazelnuts from Palestrina, the Williams pear from Castel Madama and peaches from Castel Gandolfo. To conclude this brief, synthesised itinerary in search of typical products, we must not forget to mention one of the production vocations existing in this province that dates back to post-war time. Although it is not strictly related to agriculture, it nonetheless numbers among the agricultural products: floriculture. In fact, linked to this occupation is an entire "web", engaging a large number of businesses: from those specialised in building the installations to those dealing in trade, some of which supply an ever-increasing range of services. The areas with the most production are those of Nemi, where violets, gladiolas, tulips, anemones and chrysanthemums are cultivated, and St. Marinella, whose cultivations are protected in greenhouses and mainly include carnations, tuberoses, irises, freesias and margaritas.
Wines
To describe, even if summarily, DOC wines (registered designation of origin) from the province of Rome, we shall begin with a "Bianca Capena", dry or slightly sweetish, worthy of the tradition that led Orazio to write about the fertile vineyards of Capenam. Historical appeal moves us from the Capena area to Cerveteri, former powerful Etruscan lucumony bearing the ancient name of Caere, where viticulture and wine-making played an important role. The "red" and, especially, the "white" from Cerveteri are two much appreciated DOC wines: the latter is considered perfect to accompany shellfish and fish soup. To say the name Frascati is to say white wine from the "Castelli": this was the first wine in Latium to be recognised as DOC, but has always been acclaimed by Romans and Popes. Genzano and Lanuvio produce a "white" with perfect body and velvety taste drawn from the volcanic substances in the district. The "Marino" is well matched with the "Frascati" in the history of classical wines from Latium: dry white and praised to the skies, at the centre of the tradition of the "wine-giving fountains", which takes place on the first Sunday in October during the grape harvest festival, as the popular song goes ? "Excursion to the Castelli". The "Colli Albani", result of a great piece of quality work and organisation, recalls a splendid prestigious past that is in constant renewal. The "Montecompatri Colonna" is produced in an area that lies within the perimeter of the "Latium volcano", where ancient Labicum rose, on the borders of Zagarolo and Montecompatri: this is a dry, very pleasant-tasting wine for all meals. Popes Gregory VII and Boniface VIII were not the only ones to appreciate the generous wine from Velletri, formerly Velitrae for Romans. And back to the "Zagarolo" white with the engagement of vineyards and wine-makers from Gallicano, resulting in a palatable wine with characteristics similar to the best from the "Castelli Romani". Finally, a further tribute to a renowned area in the Roman province, with the white and red of Genazzano, situated with its vineyards in the high valley of the Sacco river on one of the hilly ridges at a height of almost 400 meters. We conclude this brief "Roman" overview of DOCs with the Cesanese from Olevano Romano, which exists in various versions: dry and sweetish, smooth, slightly bitter, generous in its alcoholic content, and the Cesanese from Affile.
Olive Oil
The province of Rome holds the record in production surface in the region and engages a large part of the provincial territory, including 80 out 120 municipalities. This is why the Province of Rome intends to commit itself increasingly to the support of oil, especially in consideration of the excellent quality of some production areas that are just as good as other more well-known production areas. Oil is meant not only as an agricultural product but also as a special substance of use in Roman and Latium cuisine. It is also the symbol of culture in the Mediterranean civilisation, a centre of country civilisation around which a world of traditions and history have been developed. Oil from the Province of Rome is produced by means of oil presses and is of the highest quality; many cooperatives have chosen this form of structure in order to have a greater boost towards an increasingly better product. To give a few examples, there is extra-virgin olive oil from "Sabina", the "Colli di Tivoli", the "Castelli Romani" and extra-virgin oil from the "Soratte".
Fromages
profumi e sapori - scents and flavours Cheeses typical of the Province of Rome are Roman sheep's cheese (pecorino), Roman soft cheese (caciotta), Roman ricotta and hard, sharp cheese (canestrato), all of which are totally or partially derived from sheep's milk. The most important among these is the "Pecorino romano", a cheese with very old origins, well-known and appreciated both in Italy and abroad, and exclusively produced from whole sheep's milk. It has a characteristic smell and taste, which is also particular and sharp. It proffers a pleasing taste in seasoning first courses. The Canestrato, derived directly from pecorino romano, owes its name to the fact of its being pressed inside a wicker basket, whose weave will later be imprinted on the cheese. The Roman Caciotta is usually a fresh, hard, compact paste (there is also a seasoned caciotta that has a more pronounced taste); it is generally white in colour, but can also be slightly straw-coloured. Mixed Caciotta (cow's milk and sheep's milk) is an appetising, sharp cheese, typical of the Roman countryside. It is round and flattish and never weighs less than 3 kilos. Firm Roman ricotta, compact and dry, is very well-known and sought after. It can be made from buffalo, sheep, goat, cow and mixed milks.
Despite modern technical advancements, these products from the Roman countryside still retain recognisable ties with the past, hereby preserving the integrity of their genuineness, deliciousness, quality and alimentary safety.
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Villas and Castles
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Discovering Villas and Castels...
In the Province of Rome, villas present different aspects of extraordinary interest, from environment to archaeology, from architecture to pictorial decorations and the elegant choice of furnishings. These villas represent an artistic heritage of inestimable value. Castles, still intact or knowledgeably restored, are not less suggestive and blend perfectly with the environment. They symbolise significant stages, through which one can detect events that, together with architectonic originality and, quite often, a natural, urban environment of rare beauty, recall the aura of past eras and renew the memory of ancient legends.
There are innumerable castles interspersed throughout the area of the Roman province, however, due to a limited amount of space, we shall indicate the most important ones, although all of them, without reserve, deserve to be at least mentioned.
Villas
ville e castelli - villas and castels
The itinerary of the discovery of the Villas must needs begin from Tivoli (32 km from Rome), where the most important and famous ones are located. Let's start with Villa Adriana, a huge residential complex, in which the Emperor Adriano had buildings constructed (118-138 A.D.) that reminded him of monuments that had impressed him the most on travels across his boundless empire: the Canopic Jar from the Nile Valley and the "Pecile" of Athens, the large and small Baths, the "piazza d'Oro". This Villa still preserves its majesty and the magnificent evidence of grandeur and splendour of the ancient Roman world. Villa d'Este is one of the most famous, well-known and visited monuments in the world. Desired by Hippolytus II of Este, nephew of Pope Alexander VI Borgia, and designed by Pirro Ligorio, it represents a jewel of renaissance art; among others, painters, such as Vasari, Muziano and the Zuccaris, took part in the construction works, which began in 1550. Benvenuto Cellins also collaborated on the decoration. For watering the fountains that enrich the gardens of the Villa, Hippolytus II had an underground canal dug, which withdrew water from the Aniene River and fed it into the hundreds of fountains throughout the city, hereby using the principle of communicating vessels. Villa Gregoriana is also of considerable interest and rare beauty. Its name is taken from Pope Gregory XVI. Here the waters of the Aniene gush from Mount Catillo and form the famous waterfalls that drop over 100 meters. Villa Gregoriana is not a place that can be described simply, it can only be visited. Leaving Tivoli and its wonders, we move into the area of the "Castelli Romani", in search of that vast, precious, artistic, cultural and historic heritage represented by the architectonic, botanic complex known as "Ville Tuscolane" that extends into an area that includes the Municipalities of Frascati, Monte Porzio Catone and Grottaferrata. Villa Aldobrandini, in Frascati (21 km from Rome) is considered the queen of the "Ville Tuscolane" and one of the most beautiful in Europe. The building is the work of Giacomo Della Porta; the nymphaeum is embellished by niches and statues. Inside, one can admire paintings by the Zuccari brothers and frescoes by the Domenichino; Cavalier D'Arpino painted the "Storia Sacra" there. Villa Lancellotti rises on part of the Lucullo villa. The building preserves paintings by Annibale Carracci. Villa Falconieri owes its name to Cardinal Alessandro Falconieri, who had it restored in 1727. Before this it was known as Villa Rufini. Borromini designed the Central Building; it contains caricatures of the society at that time and lovely female figures; there is a small, rectangular-shaped lake in the park. Villa Tuscolana or Rufinella, constructed on the highest point with respect to the other villas, is from 1580; the building is by Vanvitelli. This sumptuous residence belonged to Luciano Bonaparte. Villa Torlonia, currently a public park, was constructed in 1563 for Annibal Caro who translated and recomposed the Aeneid here; it has a water show designed by Maderno, who assisted in creating all types of artistic shows. Villa Mondragone is included in the area of Monte Porzio Catone (25 km from Rome) and was constructed by Martino Longhi in 1515, to fulfil the wishes of Gregory XIII; the majestic loggia is by Vignola. The heraldic dragon of the Boncompagnis, the lineage of the Pope, was placed above the fountain in the large square; for this reason the villa was called Mondragone. Villa Muti is a lovely example of mannerist architecture, decorated by Passignano and Pietro da Cortona, Dating back to the 1500s, Villa Sora was frescoed by Cavalier D'Arpino and Villa Grazioli, in the area of Grottaferrata (21 km from Rome), was constructed by Mascherino and decorated in three subsequent phases from the beginning of the 1600s until the mid-1700s.
Castels
ville e castelli - villas and castels
We shall begin our itinerary in the area north of the province, specifically, in Santa Marinella (62 km from Rome); behind this tourist port is Odescalchi Castle, where one can see some remains and fragments of statues and mosaics from Roman villas; not far away, one finds the Castle of Santa Severa, recently restored and rich in archaeological finds and historic stratifications, thus making it one of the most interesting castles in the entire region. It houses the Public Museum and many handicrafts shops. Another castle worthy of visiting is the Odescalchi Castle in Bracciano (40 km from Rome), whose halls are enriched with exquisite frescoes by the Zuccaris and Antoniazzo Romano; it is shaped in an irregular quadrilateral form with six impressive towers, five cylinder-shaped and one square-shaped, and represents one of the most interesting examples of fortified military architecture. Let's now change areas and moved into the Tiber Valley, specifically along Via Flaminia, where we find Morlupo (32 km from Rome); its Castle was reconstructed by the Orsinis in the 1500s. Remaining on this consular road until Km.27, we find Riano Castle, having one quadrangular tower and three circular towers. In this area, other Castles are in Fiano Romano (34 km from Rome), Civitella San Paolo (46 km from Rome) and Nazzano (47 km from Rome) from the 12th through the 14th centuries. Moving towards the East of the province, into the Roman Sabina area, we arrive in Montelibretti (46 km from Rome), where the old town is dominated by the Castle amply reconstructed by the Barberinis in the 17th century. Not far away lies Nerola (49 km from Rome), a small village entrenched on a buttress of the Lucretili Mountains, where the imposing profile of the Castle rises; the Crescenzis had this castle built in the 10th century on the ruins of an ancient Sabina fortress; it has been perfectly restored and is used as a hotel. Over the centuries, the Savelli Castle in Palombara Sabina (37 km from Rome), with its halls enriched by decorations and frescoes, has hosted popes, antipopes and emperors, such as Federico Barbarossa. The Castle of "S. Polo dei Cavaliers" (44 km from Rome) was built by the Orsinis in the 15th century and reconstructed by Cardinal Federico Cesi in the 16th century. Let's complete this brief itinerary with a quick mention of the castles found in the southern area of the province. Here we begin with the Castle of Margaret of Austria in Castel Madama (41 km from Rome), and continue with the 13th century Orsini Castle in Roccagiovine (51 km from Rome), Massimo of Arsoli Castle (62 km from Rome), restored through works by Vignola and Giacomo della Porta, within which one can admire collections of weapons, tools and furniture from the era, and that of Roviano (60 km from Rome), and finally, the Castle of Ciciliano (48 km from Rome), Theodoli of Sambuci Castle and the 10th century Brancaccio Castle of S.Gregorio from Sassola (45 km from Rome).
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Archeology
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Statua in bronzo togata, Etruria
| The roman ruin, the etruscan settlements, the archeological find...
archeologia - archeology |
It is effortless and natural to disclose and promote the knowledge of inestimably valuable archaeological heritage, offered by the province of Rome. The earth here is full of historical evidence that represents the most complete and amazing cross-section of Italian and European culture, owing also to the Rome's being here.
The ruins of the Roman age, the Etruscan settlements, archaeological finds spread throughout the land, the monuments and all their splendour and the mystery of life gone by still fascinates visitors today. In visiting the province of Rome, welcome guests can savour the subtle enjoyment of the art that is universal here.The profound significance of meeting with one of the most relevant and extraordinary places in our culture shall surely remain in the hearts and minds of everyone.
If it is true, as the famous saying goes, "all roads lead to Rome", it is also true that all roads cross the Roman province. Among these, one road deserves special tribute: Via Appia, the "regina viarum", as Romans call it. This road has been celebrated by painters and writers in every era; it is rich in historical and archaeological evidence, such as monuments, tombs, aqueducts, stone-paved tracts that make it unique in the world. In fact, via Appia leads us into the area of the "Castelli Romani", the first leg of our itinerary. Thanks to the captivating descriptions of illustrious travellers, including Goethe, Stendhal and Gogol, tourism in this area has been internationally extolled and propagated. Let us begin our visit in Albano Laziale (25 km from Rome), whose name seems to be derived from Alba Longa. The origins of the town must date back to Castra Albana in the 3rd century A.D.; it was a fortified encampment that Emperor Settimio Severo had built. One should not miss seeing the mausoleums of the Orazis and Curiazis from the 1st century B.C., the great cisterns, an imposing hydraulic work from the Roman era that is still in working order, the ruins of the amphitheatre and the Cellomaio baths that date back to Emperor Caracalla. Velletri, the ancient Velitrae (39 km from Rome), also deserves a visit. Important archaeological finds, such as, for example, the copy of the famous "Veliterna Pallas", conserved today in the Louvre in Paris, can be found in the museum here. Just outside Frascati (20 km from Rome) we can marvel at the Tusculum archaeological area, enclosed in a lovely panoramic scene. Remnants can be seen of the via dei Sepolcri, a Roman cistern, one of Tiberio's villas, and, in particular, a 2nd century B.C. theatre, where the cavea, access ramps and the front of the stage are still recognisable today.
Hereafter, the itinerary pursues the search for the Etruscan culture and begins in Vejo, just under 20 km from Rome. Vejo was the capital of the Veiente State that extended to the Tiber in the south, and which occupied the right bank, hereby including the Vatican and Gianicolo. This city was a flourishing centre between the 8th and 6th centuries B.C. Just outside the walls, in the district of Portanaccio, the remains of a Sanctuary with a swimming pool and temple, probably dedicated to Minerva, separated into three naos and with a large pronaos, were unearthed. The four famous terracotta statues of Apollo, Mercury, Heracles and a Goddess with a child, which constituted the acroterium group of the Temple, were recovered here. Datable to the 6th century, the statues are currently in the Museum in Villa Giulia and have been attributed to the artist Vulca, who was to have worked in the Temple of Giove Capitolino in Rome. Among the tombs in Vejo, the most famous is that of "Campana" (first half of the 6th century B.C.); its frescoes draw on oriental art. The course of the Arrone river marked the border between the Veiente State and Cerite, the capital of which was Caere, 45 km from Rome and located where today's Cerveteri lies. Its origins date back to the 9th century B.C., during the iron age, however, Caere's period of maximum splendour was reached between the 7th and 6th centuries B.C., when it dominated a vast expanse that included the Tolfa Mountains, Lake Bracciano, part of the areas of Blera and Vejo and a good 70 kilometres of Tyrrhenian coast. The most ancient tombs date back to the 8th century B.C., whereas the most recent were after the 4th century. In the necropolis of Banditaccia, we find various kinds of architectonic tombs, some in mounds constructed in tuff, with chambers emulating the insides of the homes of the living; others are similar, even on the outside, to homes lined up along veritable sepulchral, orthogonal roads, and still others, the most recent ones, are in a hypogeum. The most interesting tombs in this necropolis are the sarcophaguses, the alcove, the capitals, funeral beds and, above all, the "Tomba Bella" or Reliefs (4th century B.C.). In Pyrgi (Santa Severa), in the Sanctuary dedicated to Leucothea, two golden laminas, written in Etruscan and Phoenician, were recovered; these constitute the longest and most important bilingual, Etruscan testimony.
Proceeding with our itinerary, we reach the Tiber Valley, one of the areas of major interest in the Roman province because it offers the opportunity to view ancient medieval towns and archaeological areas of particular relevance. It is precisely along this route that closely follows the bends of the Tiber that one can discover a remarkable jewel of classic antiquity, sought at length by historians and archaeologists and finally brought to light: the "Lucus Feroniae" in the district of Fiano Romano (36 km from Rome). This was an important Roman colony and centre of the most ancient markets as well as where the celebrated Sanctuary, dedicated to the Goddess Feronia, divinity of earth and nature, stood. The colony was destroyed by Hannibal in 211 B.C., but reconstructed, remaining prosperous until the 3rd century A.D. Still today one can admire the outline of the ancient town: the forum, flanked by porticos, where numerous shops were located, a Templar building and an amphitheatre, among the smallest discovered in Italy. A few kilometres away, we find Capena (36 km from Rome), a medieval town where, in Civitucola, one can visit the ancient acropolis with its ruins: a Roman construction, with walls and sewage ducts and numerous necropolises around the hilltop. Now we shall move into the Tiburtine-Subiaco area, in the Aniene Valley, where we come to Tivoli (32 km from Rome). Due to its very ancient origins and the wealth of its history, this city boasts an immense archaeological heritage. According to tradition, the origin of the city dates back to 1215 B.C., which coincides with the development of the Latin village, Tibur, that probably occupied the area of the acropolis. On this site, the two most famous temples of Tivoli were constructed: that of Sibilla, in rectangular form, and that of Vesta, round-shaped. Near the Rocca Pia, the Roman amphitheatre, said to be by Bleso, was built; it was discovered in 1948. its tiers rose to a presumed height of 12 meters. Particular mentioned should be made of Villa Adriana (118-138 A.D.) due to the imposing grandeur of its architecture. The Villa features a composite of structures, including temples, theatres, libraries, baths and expanses of water and still preserves the fascination of the greatness and splendour of the Roman spirit. Lingering in this area, one should not miss seeing the Villa of Orazio in Licenza (55 km from Rome), the finds of which can be found in the Orazian Museum in the Orsini Palace. Changing scenario, we are now in the area of the Prenestine Mountains, located in the southern portion of the province. Here we are in Palestrina (39 km from Rome), ancient Praeneste, whose origins are evidenced by the Temple of Primordial Fortune, a majestic Sanctuary that dominates the entire populated centre. The walls of the small boundary temple are incorporated into the 17th century Colonna Barberini Palace, seat of the National Prenestine Archaeological Museum, where the splendid mosaic of the flooding of the Nile is preserved. The city is also known for being the birthplace of Giovanni Pierluigi from Palestrina, one of the greatest music geniuses of all time. Segni (58 km from Rome) should also be visited, where the monolithic Sarcene Port is set into the polygonal walls, dating back to the 6th century B.C.
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Parks and nature reserve
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| First for extension, between the regional Natural Reserve...
Parks and Natural Reserve - parchi e riserve naturali |
The most sizeable from among the regional, protected areas is the Park in the Simbruini Mountains, located in the lee of the Aniene Valley. This park offers vistas of forests, rocky walls and wild gorges and is the home of very unique animals, such as bears, wolves and golden eagles. Among mountaintops and karstic plateaus, the mountain displays many of its most appealing environments and has remarkable historical and cultural surprises in store, such as the monasteries of Subiaco, rich in works of art connected to the faith and hard work of St. Benedict; Cervara of Roma (1053 m.), the highest-lying Municipality in the province; and Mount Livata (1400 m.), a well-known holiday resort in the summer and skiing paradise in the winter. The Park of the Lucretili Mountains, in the Tiburtine-Subiacan area, at the gates of Rome, is less harsh and more accessible, its highest peak being Mount Pellecchia (1368 m.). Its beech groves constitute some of the most highly valued woodlands in the entire region. Among the most remarkable views to be pointed out are those of the Park of Appia Antica, where history and nature merge into a single context, the Park of the Castelli Romani, Veio and Bracciano-Martignano. A legacy of ancient volcanic activity can be seen in the tuffs of the Treja Valley, where paths travelled by visitors along the ravines lead to spectacular waterfalls and some of the most important tombs of Etruscan necropolises in Italy. We are in the Tiber Valley; here in the winding flatland formed by silt, one also finds the natural reserve of Nazzano-Tevere Farfa, the first to be instituted and, not far away, the unmistakable, isolated rise of Mount Soratte. These natural, protected areas are unadulterated, precious oases. In the marshes of Torre Flavia (Ladispoli) as well as the Macchiatonda reserve (St.Marinella), the scents and colours of the dunes are un unforgettable apparition; there is no lack of evergreen areas of Mediterranean shrub, such as, for example, the reserve of the Villa Borghese in Nettuno, to say nothing of the surprise of sulphur springs on the seashore, such as in the reserve of Tor Caldara (Lavinio). Finally, the world of marshes and humid regions is represented by the reserve on the Roman coast and the seaside reserves from the Shoals of Tor Paterno.
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