Lying on a rocky hill in the upper Aniene Valley at 408 m above sea level, Subiaco is one of the most important centres in Lazio for the great religious appeal of its monasteries, the beauty of its monuments and the charm of the surrounding nature. The course of the Aniene River flowing at the foot of the town greatly influenced its historical development and fostered early human settlements.
Chosen by Saint Benedict who stayed and founded numerous monasteries here, Subiaco lived through centuries of glory under the guidance, spiritual and temporal, of its commendatory abbot.
The city, culturally enriched by the presence of a library and the monastic scriptorium, holds a record for printing: most likely at the invitation of Cardinal Nicola Cusano, the two clerics Arnold Sweynheym and Conrad Pannartz, already printers in Mainz, reached Subiaco in 1464 and set up the first printing house in Italy there.
In 1773, the spiritual power passed to Giovanni Angelo Braschi, later elected Pope Pius VI, who worked hard for the development of Subiaco, expanded and transformed the paper mill, established the Public Library, restored the Rocca dei Borgia, built the Seminary and made the ancient Sublacense road driveable. The grateful population of Subiaco dedicated the “Triumphal Arch“, inaugurated in 1789.
Pius VI called to Subiaco, for the construction site of the Cathedral of Sant’Andrea, the greatest artists who gravitated to the Eternal City at the time, bringing to the Aniene Valley a breath of that Roman Baroque that had translated the Rococo manner from beyond the Alps into a more Italian language.
The iconic Castello di Torre Alfina, located in the picturesque Friuli-Venezia Giulia region in northeastern Italy, is a superb example of medieval history and architecture. Dating back to the 13th century, this castle has witnessed centuries of turmoil and evolution in the area, standing guard over the gently rolling hills and lush vineyards characteristic of the region. Originally built as a fortification to protect against invaders, the castle’s strategic location provided an excellent vantage point, allowing its inhabitants to effectively oversee and control the surrounding territories. Castello di Torre has undergone numerous modifications and restorations, reflecting changes in architectural styles and defensive needs over different eras. Its solid stone walls, majestic towers, and battlements evoke the grandeur of the medieval period while offering a glimpse into the daily life of its historical inhabitants. Today, it not only serves as a historical monument but also as a cultural venue, hosting events, exhibitions, and educational tours that attract visitors from around the world. The surrounding landscape of Castello di Torre is equally enchanting, with verdant vineyards producing some of Italy’s finest wines. The blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and stunning natural surroundings makes Castello di Torre an unmissable destination for history enthusiasts, architecture aficionados, and nature lovers alike.
