Surprise. Rome does not rank first in terms of the highest average income per capita. Here’s where Lazio’s wealthiest citizens live.
Grottaferrata
It ranks first for its 29,724 euros in average per capita income. Although it is less well known than Frascati, Grottaferrata is famous for its beautiful villas, often purchased by soccer players and other show business personalities. It is part of the Castelli Romani area and contains a monastery founded in 1004 by St. Nilus of Rossano (the Abbey of Santa Maria di Grottaferrata). This monastery follows the Byzantine rite.
The Abbey of St. Nilus was built on an ancient Roman villa given to the Basilian monks by the Count of Tusculum. The name “Grottaferrata” comes from the iron grates that protected a Roman crypt (Crypta Ferrata) located on the site of the abbey.
Main Attractions
- Greek Abbey of St. Nilus: The spiritual and historical heart of the town, with a church rich in mosaics and medieval artwork
- Ad Decimum Catacombs: Located just outside the center, these catacombs date back to Roman times and offer a glimpse into early Christian history
- Ville Tuscolane: Elegant historic residences nestled in the green Albani Hills
- Centro Storico: A medieval village characterized by picturesque streets and scenic views with bars where you can stop for a quiet aperitif
It is surrounded by the Castelli Romani Regional Park and is a residential destination chosen especially by families to live in tranquility with all necessary services close by. There are also many restaurants in Grottaferrata known for their good homemade food, such as Canneto, Osteria del Fico Vecchio and Il Cavallino in Villa.
Formello
Formello ranks third, after Rome (with 28,900), with its 27,484 euros average income per capita. It is a charming medieval village located about 30 km from the capital, in the heart of the Agro Veientano and Veio Regional Park. Rich in history, culture and nature, the town is an ideal destination for those wishing to explore the traditions and landscapes of Lazio.
Formello’s name comes from the Latin word “forma,” which indicated the conduits dug by the Etruscans to drain water.
Main Attractions
- Historic Center: The medieval village spreads along Via XX Settembre, which connects Porta da Capo to Porta da Piedi. Here are historic buildings such as Palazzo Chigi (now home to the Agro Veientano Museum) and the Church of San Lorenzo
- Valle del Sorbo: A protected natural area within the Veio Park, characterized by valleys, woods, river and free animals. It is an ideal place for nature lovers.
- Sanctuary of the Madonna del Sorbo in the Park of Veio
- Mola di Formello: An ancient ruined mill located in the Sorbo Valley, reached by scenic trails
- Villa Chigi: Also known as “La Versaglia,” it is a historic villa surrounded by greenery.
Due to its location in the Veio Park, one can go on various nature trips.
Top 10 richest villages in Lazio.
- Grottaferrata
- Rome
- Formello
- Monte Porzio Catone
- Sacrofano
- Frascati
- Ciampino
- Manziana
- Trevignano
- Santa Marinella