CASTELLI ROMANI
Several archeological sites, medieval abbeys, a beautiful landscape with two volcanic lakes and a great offer of certified wine and food specialities…
The so-called “Roman Castles” are 13 hilly towns about 20 km south of Rome. The area is renowned for its wine production and the breeze from the Alban Hills where Romans escape during hot summer days. In fact, the region has been inhabited since prehistorical times and it became even more attractive when Rome enlarged its influence.
In the Middle Ages castles of various noble families were erected, giving them the name we still use today. The castles became spectacular residences from the Renaissance onwards, but they are mostly unaccessible to visitors.
Complete your day trip:
Curious Wanderers
The Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo recently opened to the public.
Alternatively you can visit the villa built by Bernini for the family Chigi in Ariccia.
The Abbey of Grottaferrata dates back to the year 1004 and it still houses Greek monks and a famous library.
archaeo fans
The town of Albano hides an impressive Roman cistern and the remains of a Legionnaire’s Camp.
Nemi was devoted to goddess Diana and her sanctuary is next to the museum of Caligula’s ships: this story is just incredible!
And finally Tusculum boasts ruins of a ghost town from the 4th century BC, partially covered by the vegetation now…!
nature lovers and relax seekers
Lake Albano and the lake of Nemi are fascinating volcanic lakes that you can embrace in one glance. In the warm season, you can relax on the beach, swim in and hike around the lakes, or even explore them on a kayak!
foodies
Romans love to relax where there’s great food! Like them, enjoy certified Genzano bread to famous porchetta (pork roasted with herbs), then salami and cheese to be tasted in cellars or at the typical fraschette (rough-and-ready booths along the roads) with a glass of fresh young wine produced in the local vineyard for centuries. To finish, a wild strawberry and cream tart will be the “cherry on top” of your day!
