If you love out-of-town trips, today we reveal to you a Latium hamlet all to discover. We are talking about Arsoli, located about 60 km from the capital, in the province of Rome. This charming village is located on the eastern foothills of the Simbruini Mountains, on the border between Lazio and Abruzzo.
It is called “Little Paris,” a term coined by the famous writer Luigi Pirandello, who loved to spend his summers in this village. Pirandello, in fact, was attracted by the tranquility and beauty of the place, which allowed him to escape the summer heat and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere. His landmark in the village was Bar Altieri (now gone) in Valeria Square, where he loved to sip a soda and converse with the locals.
What to see in Little Paris
The heart of the village guards Piazza Valeria, characterized by a 16th-century octagonal fountain on one side and a Roman military column on the other. Arsoli’s historic center is a labyrinth of narrow alleys and steps winding among ancient stone houses.
If you love going back in time, pay a visit to Massimo Castle, which dominates the landscape and offers spectacular views of the Simbruini Mountains. The irregular structure fits the terrain and includes Italianate gardens, a statue of the goddess Roma, and the church of San Rocco. Inside, a gallery with historic weapons, frescoes by artists such as the Zuccaris and Marco Benefial (1749), and original furnishings, including four-poster beds and precious furniture, stand out. It may be closed because it is undergoing restoration. This place can be voted on the FAI website.
Food and nature
Arsoli is not only rich in history and architecture, but also offers opportunities for nature lovers. The village is an ideal starting point for numerous hiking trails that lead to the discovery of the unspoiled landscape of the Simbruini Mountains. In addition, we recommend you try the typical dishes; this area is known for its bread and fresh pasta, such as “Sagnozzi,” pasta made with wheat flour and topped with chopped bacon or guanciale.
This little Lazio gem, with its timeless charm and tranquil atmosphere, continues to enchant visitors, just as it did Pirandello almost a century ago… Great if you’re looking for tranquility.