Gallicano nel Lazio lies between the gorges of two streams crossed by the arches of the Claudian Aqueduct, on a tuff terrace at the foot of the Prenestini Mountains. Located on the Prenestina Casilina stretch of the Southern Via Francigena, the village boasts very ancient origins, as testified by numerous archaeological findings discovered in this area. Some scholars say it was founded by the consul Gallicano, martyred in the fourth century, while others argue the name derives from a rooster, who, with its crowing, saved the inhabitants from the attack of the enemies.
Gallicano nel Lazio
The picturesque alleys branch off from the main street, which runs between the two gates Maggiore and San Salvatore. Gallicano nel Lazio is part of the itinerary of the Roman Aqueducts, which also includes Anio Vetus and Novus, Aqua Marcia, and Aqua Claudia. These aqueducts cross valleys carved into the tuff and pass over monumental Roman bridges.
Gallicano nel Lazio – comune.gallicanonellazio.rm.it
Not to be missed is the Passerano Castle, with its corner towers and fortified entrance dating back to the tenth century. Destroyed around 1530 and then rebuilt, it became a baronial palace thanks to the Colonna family. The fortress dominates the surrounding countryside creating a fairytale atmosphere.
As for food and wine tradition, Gallicano nel Lazio boasts delicious recipes, such as fettuccine with mushrooms and tagliata with artichokes, and, among the wines, the thousand years old Roma DOC wine and the Zagarolo DOC.
Gallicano nel Lazio – Facebook @Infiorata-Gallicano-nel-Lazio
The most awaited event is the Corpus Christi Infiorata held in June, which dates back to the late 1800’s. It consists of an installation of recycled material (instead of flowers) along the streets of the village. The initiative is part of the National Network of Infiorates and Ephemeral Art Compositions, which brings together over seventy national events of this kind.