Perched on a hill 763 meters above sea level, Castel San Pietro Romano is one of Lazio's most precious gems. Recognized as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of Italy" and among the "100 Destinations of Italy," this small town, overlooking the city of Palestrina, enchants visitors with breathtaking views stretching from the Roman countryside to the Simbruini Mountains, offering vistas that resemble a painting.

The medieval village is a true journey through time. At its center stands the majestic Rocca dei Colonna, a medieval fortress that dominates the town and tells centuries of history. Originally built as a defensive structure, the Rocca underwent numerous destructions and reconstructions, eventually losing its military purpose to become a communal storage facility for food supplies under Stefano Colonna. Abandoned in the 19th century, it was restored in the early 2000s and now serves as the historical and cultural heart of Castel San Pietro Romano, hosting events and exhibitions such as the winter artistic nativity scene featuring life-sized figures.

Strolling through the streets of Castel San Pietro Romano feels like stepping into another era. Narrow alleys and cozy squares lead visitors to discover places of great charm, including the Church of San Pietro Apostolo, located in the main square. Built on the remains of an ancient Benedictine monastery, the church houses precious artworks, including an altarpiece by Giacinto Gimignani and a statue of Saint Peter sculpted by Paolo Benaglia. Particularly intriguing are the holy water fonts, crafted using elements from the Roman era.

Equally fascinating is the Church of Santa Maria della Costa, built in the 18th century on the site of Blessed Margherita Colonna's hermitage. This church exudes an aura of peace and mysticism that blends beautifully with the surrounding landscape.

Outside the town center, two small churches are worth a visit: the Church of Santa Maria del Montirolo and the neo-Gothic Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows, built in the early 20th century. Both add another piece to the rich mosaic of faith and tradition that characterizes the village.

The ancient past of Castel San Pietro Romano also emerges in its Cyclopean Walls, an imposing pre-Roman fortification made of large limestone blocks. This masterpiece of ancient engineering, later enhanced by the Colonna family in the 12th century with the addition of towers, is a tangible testament to the site’s strategic importance.

The village also celebrates conviviality and traditions. The Giglietto, a local biscuit protected by Slow Food, takes center stage in the gastronomic itinerary on the last Sunday of July, offering an unmissable opportunity to discover the authentic flavors of the region. In August, the patronal festivals of San Rocco bring the village to life with historical reenactments, music, and fireworks, transforming Castel San Pietro Romano into a lively cultural and entertainment hub.

Finally, the views. From every corner of the village, one can enjoy vistas that sweep across the Sacco Valley, the Prenestini Mountains, and the Alban Hills, with glimpses of Rome in the distance. This small town seems suspended between heaven and earth, offering visitors not just stunning beauty, but also the sense of being part of an ancient and fascinating narrative.