Terre di Otium | Destinations | The Aniene Valley

LISTEN TO THE STORIES OF THE RIVER
AND FEEL IT DOWN TO THE CORE!

The Aniene is a river that has so many stories to tell that you would stay up all day and night listening to them. These are stories about villages that still preserve the memory of a world long gone and of beautiful models who have charmed artists and painters. You can even listen to the story of a place Castel Madama that five centuries ago changed its name in honor of a very powerful Lady, who is said to peep out every now and then, especially ever since the locals dedicated a Palio to her! Do not just listen, but also experience the adventure of rafting down the Aniene River. Visit the Monastery of San Cosimato and explore the specus of one of the four Roman aqueducts that once branched off from the river! Have a taste of the local trout and crayfish. Walk the steep stairways and alleys of Cervara di Roma, whose walls and hidden corners have become “canvases” on which artists can create their own artwork and write their own poems! Do not miss a chance to go walking in the Monti Simbruini Park, Emperor Trajan’s hunting ground, and visit his wonderful Villa on the plateau of Arcinazzo.

LET THE SPIRITUALITY
SINK IN

Some places have a soul of their own. The Sacro Speco, the cave in which Benedict of Norcia took refuge and around which the Monastery was built centuries later, is undoubtedly one of these. You will be mesmerized while looking at it leaning like a swallow’s nest against the rock, and upon entering the wonderful medieval frescoes that show the story of the Patron Saint of Europe. The Aniene Valley is the cradle of western monasticism – you will feel truly inspired. Reach Vallepietra, a tiny village where the old Sanctuary of the SS. Trinità is located. Between the end of May and the beginning of June you can still hear the “Pianto delle Zitelle”, a solemn procession in honor of the “Three Persons”.

NOT TO BE MISSED