Catillus, the Monte della Croce

The Monte della Croce, as the locals affectionately call the mountain on top of which a metal cross was laid in 1959, owes its name to Catillus, a legendary Argive settler and founder of Tibur. At Christmas time, the cross lit up by a comet shines bright in the night sky. Established in 1997, the Natural Reserve is a 1,320-hectare protected area that includes trails for hiking and horse riding. A pleasant walk (link) will take you to panoramic viewpoints that offer stunning views of magnificent landscapes and romantic sunsets! While you are at it, why not enjoy a picnic or barbecue at Fonte Bologna?

The Reserve reaches its peak in spring, when the Styrax officinalis and Judas-tree pink flowers permeate the air with sweet scents. Late summer and fall are also just as pleasant with their warm colors, evergreen cork oak woodlands, and yellow-turning Turkey oaks. If the weather permits, you will stumble upon porcini mushrooms peeking out of the leaves! You will love to walk through winter paths while listening to the silence of the woods. If you are lucky, you will also see snow falling all around!