Rocca Priora
Welcome to Rocca Priora, the highest municipality of the Castelli Romani!
The small town of Rocca Priora, with a little over 12,000 inhabitants, is located in the metropolitan city of Rome Capital. It is the highest settlement of the Castelli Romani, known for their natural beauty and numerous historic villas. In this article, we will talk about Rocca Priora, its geography, and its history.
Physical Geography
Rocca Priora is located east of the Colli Albani, on a hill that reaches an altitude of 768 meters, offering a spectacular view of the surrounding region. In addition to being the highest municipality of the Castelli Romani, it is part of the Castelli Romani Regional Park and is the seat of the Castelli Romani and Prenestini Mountain Community. A few kilometers from the town center, we find the Pratoni del Vivaro, a vast plateau where various sports activities and cultural events take place.
The climate of Rocca Priora is very different from that of Rome, with lower temperatures and a higher frequency of precipitation. During the summer, the maximum temperature rarely exceeds 32°C, while the winter can be very cold, with snow that can cover the ground for several days.
History
Rocca Priora has a long history dating back to Roman times when it was known as "Corbium." In the third century, a Roman villa was installed on the site. In the Middle Ages, the town was known as "Perjura" and since the eleventh century, there was a settlement called "Castrum Arcis Perjuriae" on the hills. The castle passed under the control of the Annibaldi after the destruction of Tuscolo in 1191, and in 1269 it was called "Rocca Priora." Today, some traces of its history can still be seen, such as the remains of the medieval tower and some ancient churches.
What to See
Rocca Priora is a perfect place for nature and history lovers. In addition to the wonderful views of the Colli Albani, the town offers numerous hiking trails, including the Carbonai Trail that leads to the summit of Monte Cavo, the highest point of the Colli Albani, with a panoramic view of the entire region.
For visitors passionate about history, a visit to the Clock Tower, one of the symbols of the town, is a must. This thirteenth-century medieval tower houses the Rocca Priora Civic Museum, where exhibitions of local art and culture can be admired. Other places to visit are the Church of Santa Maria della Speranza, the Church of San Biagio, and the Town Hall.
Events
Rocca Priora is a lively town that hosts numerous events throughout the year. One of the most important is the Annunziata, a religious festival held on the fourth Sunday of May to celebrate the Annunciation. The town is also famous for the Porchetta Festival, a gastronomic event dedicated to the typical dish of the area, porchetta, a slowly roasted and herb-flavored pork specialty.
How to Get There
Rocca Priora is located about 25 kilometers southeast of Rome and can be easily reached by car or bus. Rome airport is less than an hour's drive away, while Rome Termini railway station is well connected by the Cotral bus service.
Conclusions
Rocca Priora is a hidden gem of the Castelli Romani, a charming place that encompasses breathtaking views, history, and culture. Come to visit us and discover for yourself the beauty and tranquility of our highest municipality. You will be fascinated by the nature and the numerous activities that the town offers, as well as by its millenary history and the passion of its inhabitants for life and tradition. Thank you for visiting Rocca Priora!
