The delightful village of Guarcino, located in the Ernici Mountains, in the province of Frosinone, just over an hour from Rome, traces its origins back to the 8th century BC: once it was the ancient Vercenum, an important transit centre in the Aniene Valley.
It’s considered an excellent starting point for all sort of excursions and is rich in water sources: during Roman times, it encompassed temples that, with the advent of Christianity, were replaced by churches dedicated to the Madonna and to Saint Michael the Archangel.
The territory holds significant natural importance due to the presence of the majestic Campo Catino massif.
Within its medieval structure, with city walls with nine towers and three turrets, four entry gates and a surrounding moat, stands the grand pointed arch that supports the ancient Palazzo del Cardinale Tomassi.
The historic centre flourishes with medieval gateways, mullioned windows and bare stone walls with the Filette spring, whose healing waters are highly appreciatevd.
Rich in history is the Church of Saint Michael the Archangel, adopted in 1587 to house Benedictine nuns, adjacent to the Patrasso Palace.
The historic centre, the sail-shaped bell towers – unique in all of Lazio – Palazzo Tomassi and the entire medieval village are of interest.
Mount Vermicano is famous for its abyss, one of the most extensive caves in Lazio, encompassing four entrances. In 1973, a team reached its depths and to this day it remains one of the favourite destinations for spelunkers from across Italy.
Among the culinary specialities are ‘abbotti’, rolls of beef tripe stuffed with bacon, celery, carrot, parsley and garlic, to be accompanied by typical dishes such as ‘sagne e fagioli’, potato gnocchi with mountain-style sauce and sheep sauce.
The local PDO ham, amaretti biscuits and the Cesanese del Piglio DOCG red wine from the region are excellent.