Along the Via Aurelia, north of Rome, the ancient village of Monte Romano preserves its rural character, such as the Agucchi granary from 1602 and the breeding of the Maremmano ox, known for its exquisite meat, a delight for gourmets.
As a historical crossroads of the Etruscan-Roman road and defensive system, Monte Romano lies at the foot of the Rotonda, an unmistakable hill crowned with centuries-old oaks at the top, offering the typical panorama of Etruscan Maremma, stretching flat towards the Tyrrhenian Sea and the borders with Tuscany.
From its long history, it preserves, among other things, the seventeenth-century castle of Rocca Respampani, the Guardiola, a watchtower visible from the Rotonda, and a large granary, the seventeenth century Agucchi Granary, used for grain storage, especially during times of famine. There’s also the indispensable fountain, the Fontana dell’Ostela. Not to be missed are the Civic Tower, or clock tower, the Mascherone Fountain, and the Church of Santo Spirito.
Today, Monte Romano excels in the breeding of Maremma cattle known for their prized and sought-after meat. All local restaurants offer it grilled, in sauce, and in various traditional recipes. In August, Monte Romano celebrates this excellence with the Maremmana Meat Festival: the main square has over 1500 seats, and on the sides, various cuts of the appreciated meat sizzle on the grills. The Santa Cecilia band, composed almost entirely of very young members, accompanies the gastronomic festival.
Among the must-attend events: in January, the Palio del Saracino, at Easter the Representation of the Passion of Christ on Good Friday, May 1st Campagnolo, and still in May, the festival of the patrons Santa Corono and Sant’Isidoro, and the Merca Festival with equestrian shows and typical peasant gastronomy.