Montenero Sabino is a fairytale medieval village spectacularly stretching on a spur surrounded by green forests to be explored in every season. It is accessible via a single road, which connects the lower church to the imposing castle at its upper end.
Montenero Sabino
Montenero Sabino probably owes its name not only to the dense, dark oak and holm hoak woods, but also to the presence of black flint, the stone widely used from prehistoric times until the early twentieth century for the manufacture of fire strikers and firearms.
The two rows of houses lining either side of a single street in Montenero Sabino – Ph @prolocomontenerosabino.com
The entire village consists of a double row of houses lining the approximately 300-metre-long Via Roma.
The Church of St. Cataldo the Bishop is dedicated to the patron saint, whose feast day is celebrated in August. Renovated in 1735, it features Baroque stucco work and frescoes, as well as a statue of the Madonna, a wooden sculpture from the 1800s, which the residents of Montenero named the Madonna della Maternità because of the gentle expression on her face.
The Orsini Castle in Montenero Sabino
Not to be missed is the medieval castle located in the upper part of the village, a military fortress transformed into a residence by the Orsini Family, who added to the building an elegant crenellation, a monumental double staircase, a portal, two circular towers, and various residential structures.
Castello Orsini, facciata – retedimorestorichelazio.it
From the castle, it is possible to enjoy a wonderful view of the village and the green countryside.
Castello Orsini, interno – retedimorestorichelazio.it
A visit to the grand reception hall, the private chapel, and the lords’ “living quarters” is truly captivating. Orsini Castle in Montenero Sabino is one of Lazio’s Historic Residences. The interior is open to visitors only on Sundays and by reservation.
On Corpus Christi Day, Montenero Sabino hosts the Infiorata Festival, which sees young and elderly artists creating mosaics along Via Roma and in Piazza del Municipio, using flowers, wild herbs, paints, and other materials.
The Guitar and Cellar Festival dedicated to singer-songwriters in Montenero Sabino
Another most awaited event is the Chitarre e Cantine Festival, dedicated to the most famous Italian singer-songwriters, an evocative journey though music and flavours attracting a great audience every year and offering food stands and live concerts in the main square.
Other important initiatives is the Festival of the Maccheroni a Fezze, handmade pasta seasoned with pesto or meat sauce, which takes place in July.