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Via Aloisio Anguillra, 00061 Anguillara Sabazia, Italy (September 2018)
Anguillara Sabazia
Anguillara Sabazia is a picturesque town located in the Lazio region of central Italy, about thirty kilometres northwest of Rome. Set on the southern shore of Lake Bracciano, the town is renowned for its captivating views, medieval atmosphere, and relaxed pace of life. Perched on a small promontory that extends into the lake, Anguillara Sabazia combines the beauty of nature with the charm of Italian history, making it a beloved destination for both locals and visitors seeking tranquillity close to the capital.
The origins of Anguillara Sabazia date back to ancient times. Archaeological findings suggest the area was inhabited during the Roman era, when villas and settlements lined the lake’s shores. The town’s name is thought to derive from the Latin word anguilla, meaning eel, a reference to the abundance of eels in the lake. During the Middle Ages, Anguillara became a fortified village, enclosed by walls that protected it from invasions. Many of these medieval structures still define the town’s skyline, with narrow winding streets, stone houses, and ancient gates preserving its historic character.
At the heart of the old town stands the Collegiate Church of Saint Mary Assunta, dating back to the fifteenth century, with later Baroque modifications that give it an elegant yet harmonious appearance. Its elevated position offers panoramic views of Lake Bracciano, particularly striking at sunset when the warm light reflects on the water and rooftops. The town’s layout encourages exploration on foot, revealing charming corners, artisan shops, and small cafes that embody the simplicity and warmth of traditional Italian life.
Lake Bracciano itself is a major attraction, known for its clear waters and natural purity. It is part of a protected regional park that prohibits motorized boats, ensuring a peaceful and environmentally preserved setting. The lake invites activities such as swimming, kayaking, sailing, and cycling along its scenic paths. The surrounding countryside is equally rich in natural and cultural sites, with nearby towns like Bracciano and Trevignano Romano adding to the region’s appeal.
Anguillara Sabazia also boasts a lively cultural scene, especially during the summer months, when local festivals, music events, and food fairs animate its streets. Traditional cuisine highlights lake fish, local olive oil, and regional wines. The blend of historical heritage, scenic beauty, and genuine hospitality makes Anguillara Sabazia a perfect retreat for anyone wishing to experience the authentic charm of Italy beyond the usual tourist routes.
Worth a Visit

Nestled at the highest point of Anguillara Sabazia’s historic centre, which itself perches above the serene expanse of Lake Bracciano, Piazza della Collegiata is a captivating public space dominated by the majestic Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, the town’s Collegiate Church. This elevated piazza, angled toward the lake, provides panoramic views and a striking backdrop for the church façade. The setting, sculpted by volcanic tuff, offers a tranquil yet elevated atmosphere: the piazza is not just a thoroughfare, but a symbolic corner of town where civic identity, religious devotion, and scenic beauty converge. Although references to a Marian place of worship in Anguillara date back to 1489, the current structure emerged following a comprehensive Baroque-style rebuilding between 1765 and 1794, led initially by architect Nicola Lorenzo Piccioni and later by Giuseppe Scatuzzi.

Piazza del Molo, often called the “Wharf Square,” is one of the most atmospheric and beloved public spaces in the medieval lakeside town of Anguillara Sabazia, perched on the eastern shore of the volcanic Lake Bracciano, just 30 km northwest of Rome. This square sits at the water’s edge and extends gently into the lake with a small jetty, offering stunning panoramic views and a welcoming ambiance for both locals and visitors. Rich in character and life, Piazza del Molo is framed by historic buildings, cafés, restaurants, and the famous Bar del Molo Gelateria Artigianale, which overlooks the lake and serves some of the best gelato in the region, often praised for both flavour and setting.
Photo Gallery of Walk in Anguillara Sabazia – Via Aloisio Anguillra to Viale Reginaldo Belloni
Approximately 1.58 km – 0.98 miles
The walk starts in Via Aloisio Anguillra – Piazza dei Bastioni – Piazza Del Comune – Corso Umberto I – Piazza della Collegiata – walk down the narrow streets to Lungolago – Via della Mola Vecchia – Vicolo del Murato – Piazza del Molo – Viale Reginaldo Belloni.
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