Castelli Romani – Alban Hills, Lazio: among ancient craters, panoramic villages and timeless flavors.
The Castelli Romani are located southeast of Rome, on the slopes of the Alban Hills, an extinct volcanic complex that has shaped a unique landscape made up of lakes, woods and panoramic terraces. Thirteen municipalities make up this territory, known for its historic villages, Renaissance villas, gastronomic specialties and the famous wine of the Castles. 🌋 A landscape shaped by the volcano:
The Alban Hills are what remains of an ancient volcanic caldera, now transformed into gentle reliefs covered with vineyards, chestnut groves and paths. The two volcanic lakes – Albano and Nemi – mark the heart of the landscape, offering spectacular views and opportunities for relaxation in contact with nature.
👉 Tip: Make your way to the Belvedere di Rocca di Papa or Monte Cavo, where you can see the whole area all the way to the sea, with Rome in the background. 🏘️ Historic villages overlooking the Roman countryside:
Among the best-known municipalities are Frascati, Ariccia, Castel Gandolfo, Grottaferrata and Nemi. Each village houses historic squares, baroque churches, fountains and ancient residences, such as the Tuscolane Villas or the papal residence of Castel Gandolfo. Here life flows slowly, between local traditions and evocative views.
👉 Tip: Visit Frascati at sunset and stop in a "fraschetta" to enjoy wine from the Castles and typical dishes in company. 🍇 Land of wine and authentic flavors:
The Alban Hills are known for their winemaking tradition: Frascati DOCG, Marino DOC and Colli Lanuvini are among the most representative denominations. Alongside the wine there are porchetta di Ariccia, homemade bread, cheeses, traditional desserts and fruit grown in the fertile volcanic soils.
👉 Tip: Take part in a festival or village festival: it is the most authentic way to discover the local flavors and customs of the area. 🚶 ♀️ Nature, hiking and protected areas:
The Castelli Romani Regional Park protects a vast green area full of paths, woods and archaeological sites. From Monte Cavo to the shores of Lake Albano, the area offers routes suitable for everyone, perfect for excursions, bike rides or simple walks in nature.
👉 Tip: Walk along the Ancient Via Sacra, the ancient Roman path that connected Tusculum to the sanctuary of Jupiter Laziale: a historical itinerary surrounded by greenery. 🛕 Culture, faith and historic villas:
The Castelli Romani are home to an important cultural heritage: from the Grottaferrata to the Tuscolane Villas of the Renaissance, up to the papal residences and ancient Roman remains, such as the Amphitheater of Albano. Each village tells centuries of history between faith, art and nature.
👉 Tip: Dedicate a day to visit Villa Aldobrandini or Villa Falconieri, surrounded by Italian gardens and panoramic views.
The Castelli Romani are a mosaic of villages, flavors and landscapes, where nature and culture meet along the ancient roads of volcanic Lazio. A territory to be explored calmly, savoring each stage.