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Via Ercolano, 00073 Castel Gandolfo, Italy (September 2019)
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Castel Gandolfo is a picturesque town located in the Alban Hills, about twenty-five kilometers southeast of Rome. Overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Albano, this charming village is one of Italy’s most beautiful and historically rich destinations. Known for its breathtaking views, peaceful atmosphere, and deep connection to the papacy, Castel Gandolfo offers visitors a unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty. The town forms part of the Castelli Romani, a group of small hill towns that have long served as a retreat from the heat and bustle of the capital.
The heart of Castel Gandolfo is its historic center, a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, stone houses, and small squares filled with flowers and local cafés. The central Piazza della Libertà is lined with elegant buildings, including the Church of Saint Thomas of Villanova, designed by the great Baroque architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The square is also home to the Papal Palace, the most significant landmark in the town. For centuries, this palace served as the summer residence of the Popes, offering them a quiet refuge surrounded by nature. Though long closed to the public, the palace and its magnificent gardens are now open as part of the Vatican Museums, allowing visitors to explore rooms once reserved for pontiffs and their guests.
The natural setting of Castel Gandolfo adds greatly to its charm. The town sits on the rim of an ancient volcanic crater, whose floor is now filled by the deep blue waters of Lake Albano. The lake is a popular spot for swimming, canoeing, and leisurely walks along the shore. From the town’s terraces and viewpoints, the sweeping panorama of the lake and the surrounding hills provides one of the most striking landscapes in the Lazio region. The area is also known for its vineyards and local cuisine, featuring traditional Roman dishes prepared with fresh, regional ingredients.
Despite its small size, Castel Gandolfo holds an important place in Italian culture and history. It offers the rare opportunity to experience centuries of papal tradition, Renaissance architecture, and unspoiled nature all in one setting. Whether arriving for a day trip from Rome or a quiet weekend away, visitors are captivated by its timeless elegance, the serenity of its lake, and the warm hospitality of its residents. Castel Gandolfo remains a living symbol of Italy’s enduring harmony between art, faith, and the natural world.
Worth a Visit
Piazza della Libertà is the charming main square of Castel Gandolfo, a picturesque town overlooking Lake Albano in the Lazio region of Italy. This elegant square serves as the heart of local life, surrounded by historic buildings, cosy cafés, and small artisan shops. Dominating the square is the Apostolic Palace, once the summer residence of the popes, which adds an air of grandeur and deep historical significance. Visitors can enjoy breath-taking views of the surrounding hills and lake, especially from the nearby terrace. The piazza is also a lively gathering place where residents and travellers alike relax, enjoy an espresso, or watch the world go by. Its peaceful atmosphere and architectural beauty reflect the timeless charm of Italian village life, making Piazza della Libertà a must-see destination for anyone exploring the Alban Hills or seeking a tranquil escape near Rome.
The Parish Church of San Tommaso da Villanova stands gracefully on Piazza della Libertà in Castel Gandolfo, a picturesque town overlooking Lake Albano. Designed by the renowned architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the seventeenth century, the church is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture commissioned by Pope Alexander VII. Its elegant façade and harmonious proportions reflect Bernini’s artistic genius, while the interior captivates visitors with its serene atmosphere, luminous dome, and refined decorative details. Dedicated to Saint Thomas of Villanova, the church has long been a focal point of the town’s spiritual and cultural life. From its steps, visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the square and the surrounding landscape. Whether admired for its architectural beauty or its religious significance, San Tommaso da Villanova represents the enduring harmony between art, faith, and history in one of Italy’s most enchanting hilltop towns.
Corso della Repubblica is the main street of Castel Gandolfo, a charming hilltop town overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Albano in Italy’s Lazio region. Stretching through the historic center, this elegant street invites visitors to stroll among centuries-old buildings, small boutiques, traditional restaurants, and inviting cafés. Lined with colorful facades and flower-filled balconies, Corso della Repubblica perfectly captures the warm and welcoming spirit of Italian village life. As you walk along its gentle slope, you can admire panoramic glimpses of the surrounding hills and enjoy the relaxed rhythm of daily life. The street connects Piazza della Libertà, where the Papal Palace stands, to other historic corners of the town, making it a natural route for exploration. Whether browsing local crafts, tasting regional specialties, or simply enjoying the view, Corso della Repubblica offers an authentic and unforgettable experience in the heart of Castel Gandolfo.
Photo Gallery of Walk – Via S. Michele to Piazza Battisti
Approximately 0.00 km – 0.00 miles
The walk starts in Via Ercolano – Piazza Battisti – Via Massimo D’ Azeglio – Via Vigna Di Corte – Piazza della Libertà – Parrocchia di San Tommaso da Villanova – Piazza della Libertà – Via Oratorio – Corso della Repubblica – Via Carlo Rosselli – Via Arco Scuole Pie – Via Roma – Piazza Battisti
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