Castel Gandolfo, located in the Lazio region, is a town famous for its scenic beauty and its role in history. The town is primarily known for having been the summer residence of the popes from the 16th century until just a few decades ago.
The history of Castel Gandolfo dates back to Roman times, as evidenced by the archaeological remains of the Domizi Enobarbi suburban villa, a large Roman villa that was built around the 1st century AD.
Over the centuries, Castel Gandolfo was governed by various noble families and functioned as an agricultural and fishing center. In 1626, Pope Urban VIII decided to make Castel Gandolfo his summer residence, and over the centuries that followed, the popes continued to use this residence to escape the high temperatures of the city of Rome during the summer.
During this period, numerous works and constructions of cultural and artistic interest were developed, including the Pontifical Palace, with a large collection of art and decorations, the Cathedral of St. Thomas Aquinas, and the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli.
Today, Castel Gandolfo is a very popular tourist destination, both for its scenic beauty and for the presence of these important historical sites. The historic center of the town offers a unique experience, with medieval streets and squares, palaces and churches that still retain the atmosphere of the past.
Additionally, it offers numerous opportunities for naturalistic excursions, along the trails of the Regional Park of the Castelli Romani and the Natural Reserve of Monte Cavo, which can be traversed on foot or by bicycle.
In summary, this is a place rich in history and natural beauty, a unique experience for those who want to discover a lesser-known but fascinating corner of Lazio.
