An hour from Rome lies the magical village of witches and artists, a must-see destination for those seeking a charming, out-of-time atmosphere. This small town of less than 1,000 inhabitants, located about 45 km from the capital, stands on a tuff hill overlooking the picturesque Treja valley, famous for its enchanting waterfalls.
The ancient houses of the village often conceal underground caves, once places of worship, now used as storage or cellars, which increase the mysterious charm of the environment.
What to see in Calcata
With its picturesque historic center, Calcata is now a haven for artists of all kinds: painters, sculptors, actors and musicians who have helped revitalize the village with creative workshops and ateliers, especially after the gradual movement of inhabitants to Calcata nuova. In the summer, the village comes alive with theater and performances organized by small local companies, making the cultural experience even richer and more immersive.
This village has received the prestigious Orange Flag of the Italian Touring Club, an award that recognizes municipalities with a quality tourist offer and a careful and sustainable welcome.
Museum of Art in Nature
A visit to Calcata cannot be separated from a unique experience at Opera Bosco, the Museum of Art in Nature opened in 1996 and located in the Treja Valley Park. It is an open-air museum laboratory where hundreds of artists have created permanent installations using only natural materials, in perfect harmony with the surrounding forest.
Opera Bosco also promotes seminars, exhibitions and concerts, and has exhibition spaces in the village of Calcata. It has received numerous awards, including the Council of Europe Landscape Prize Mention (2010-2015), participations in the Venice Biennales in 2014 and 2015, and a UNESCO World Heritage nomination in 2019.
Admission costs 10 euros, and the museum offers an innovative and engaging cultural proposal for all lovers of contemporary art and nature. For more information on hours (which change by month): operabosco@operabosco.eu.
Legend
The nickname “witch village” derives from a local legend that magical rituals took place right here many centuries ago. In fact, during Halloween it is often chosen as a destination by kids who want to have fun.
Even today, on windy nights, it is said that the chants of witches can be heard.