Lazio

In the shadow of the Eternal City

Lazio is often overlooked. Probably because most travellers stay in Rome when visiting the region. The rest of Lazio is simply too close to be seen.

But you do not have to go far to find interesting places. The Castelli Romani are located just outside the capital. During the Middle Age these small, fortified villages were property of many Roman noble families, constantly fighting each other.

Some of these forts have been mistreated and over the years integrated in modern blocks but plenty of them preserve a fascinating atmosphere that is well worth experiencing. Among these are Velletri, Frascati, Grottaferrata, Rocca di Papa, Marino, Castel Gandolfo and Albano Laziale.
And do not forget to try the dry, white wine with its heavy aroma that is produced in Castelli Romani. Frascati and Velletri “bianco” are just two of these fine wines. In addition to this, the delicious Roman cuisine of the rustic trattorias of Castelli Romani will make your trip worth it….no doubt!

Tuscia, up in the North, has a completely different character. This is a suggestive part of the region where the Roman buildings made of marble have been replaced with houses made of tuff stone. Tuscia belongs to what was used to be the Etruria, once home to the ancient and intriguing Etruscans. The area was very poor and pestered by malaria up until the beginning of the 20th century.
Today, the small towns around the lakes are surrounded by the vacation houses of the Romans. The landscape of this area is extremely varying, from the lowlands of Maremma Laziale bordering Tuscany, to the hilly inland, Monte Cimino and the beautiful volcanic lakes Bolsena and Vico.

The South of Rome, close to Campania, is one of the finest and cleanest coasts of Italy. The twin mountains Ausoni and Aurunci are pushing their way to the sea, creating a beautiful and dramatical coast line. Gaeta, Circeo and the Isole Ponziane, with Ponza, placed in the middle, are all remarkably beautiful.

Use all the senses when you explore the area called Ciociaria, in the province of Frosinone, but prepare your taste buds: excellent ricotta cheese, lamb cooked with fresh herbs, truffle and river cray fish are constants courses in the menu.