Sperlonga lies on a rock ridge of Colle San Magno, which sinks into the sea. This ancient seaside village in the province of Latina is today one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Sperlonga obtained the prestigious F.E.E Blue Flag recognition in 2024. In Sperlonga there is one of the 10 Green Flags in Lazio, the award for the most welcoming child friendly beaches.
The original, typically Mediterranean nucleus is intact. The white buildings and the narrow alleys full of artisan shops, that open onto incredible glimpses of water and sky, are enchanting.
Its coastline is also enchanting. The golden sandy beaches stretch out at the foot of the village and for about 10 kilometres frame the crystal-clear sea. Along the coast, you can observe rocks shaped by the wind in which you can observe sea caves, coastal defence towers, and the lush Mediterranean flora with vegetable gardens and olive groves. The fishing port is coloured by small boats.
Important archaeological evidence is the Villa of Tiberius brought to light at the end of the 1950s. The suggestive archaeological site includes a cave-nymphaeum on the sea, which takes us back to the glories of imperial Rome, a fish hatchery, which recalls that fish farming was widespread in the homes of the rich Romans, and a spa facility, inevitable in the homes of the important persons of the era. The National Archaeological Museum and the Villa of Tiberius host the reconstructions of large statue groups recalling the myth of Ulysses, originally located in natural caves that served as true exhibition spaces.
Torre Truglia
Not to be missed, at the tip of the promontory, stands the particular Truglia Tower, built in 1532 on a previous Roman tower. The historic centre is enriched by the former Church of Santa Maria de Speloncae (now a conference hall) and the Piazzetta del Pozzetto.
For nature and sports lovers, in addition to water sports, you can go on excursions in the Riviera di Ulisse Regional Natural Park. Here we also find a Blue Oasis managed by the WWF. The tourist-environmental heritage is enriched by the “Eyes of Sperlonga“, the lakes of S. Puoto and Lungo.
Big Bench n. 265 a Sperlonga – photo Instagram @bigbenchcommunityprogect
And if you want to enjoy a 360° panorama of the village and the surrounding nature, sit comfortably on Big Bench 265, the large bench in Sperlonga. Walking along the ancient Via Flacca, you arrive at the top of the hill overlooking the Archaeological Area of the Villa of Tiberius and the beaches. Here we find this “out of scale” work, blue like the Tyrrhenian Sea, eco-sustainable and created by local artisans. From here the paths unravel in the Ulysses Riviera Park. The views are breathtaking and range from the Gulf of Gaeta to the Pontine and Flegrean islands.
White Celery of Sperlonga
Among the typical products, the White Celery of Sperlonga has been PGI since 2010, cultivated mainly in the territory of Fondi and Sperlonga. It is unmistakable due to the marked elasticity of the ribs, the typical white or whitish colour, the lower resistance to breaking, the greater flavour. The flavour and moderately aromatic sweet taste make it suitable for dips.