Terre di Otium | Destinations

START A JOURNEY FROM THE ANCIENT PRAENESTE
TO DELVE DEEP INTO THE SACRED AND PROFANE

These mountains bear an ancient name, derived from one of the 29 Roman consular roads, the Via Prenestina, which in turn comes from Praeneste, a powerful pre-Roman city. Its present-day name is Palestrina, a bustling, fascinating town packed with history. Do not miss the Archaeological Museum and the majestic Sanctuary of Fortuna Primigenia, which was brought to light after the shelling in World War II had wiped out part of the medieval neighborhood! The Monti Prenestini hide great surprises and very ancient sites dedicated to the worship of female deities. After visiting the Goddess of Fortune, climb up to the Shrine of the Madonna of Mentorella, where some have “left” their hearts! These are stories about devotion, oblivion and extraordinary discoveries over the centuries. Walk the pilgrims’ paths and discover holy places of miracles along the way.

DID YOU KNOW THAT
HERE WAS ONCE THE SEA?

Explore villages and hamlets standing out against the sky that will offer you an unforgettable stargazing experience. Discover the Observatory in the Medieval Fortress located in the delightful village of Rocca di Cave. Listen to the story about “Tito” and walk on the Fossil Reef! Taste the sweet “Mosciarelle” of Capranica Prenestina, dried chestnuts prepared according to the tradition. Enjoy riding through the fields of Guadagnolo like in a spaghetti-Western movie!

NOT TO BE MISSED