Cervara di Roma is a small jewel nestled among the rocks of the Simbruini Mountains, at an altitude of about 1,050 meters. It is known as the “artists’ village” or the “village carved into the rock,” and is the highest municipality in the province of Rome.
If you are looking for a place where time seems to have stood still and where art literally blends with nature, Cervara is the ideal destination.
An open-air museum: what to see in Cervara di Roma
The most incredible feature of Cervara is its indissoluble link with art. Starting in the 1980s, artists from all over the world (in particular students of the master Lorenzo Ferri) began to carve figures, faces, and poems directly into the limestone walls of the village.
The Scalinata degli Artisti (Artists’ Staircase) is a climb decorated with sculptures and verses that takes you to the upper part of the village. Also worth seeing is the mountain museum, which documents the history and traditions of the local community. To visit: it is generally open on Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with special openings.Address: Via Giuseppe Verdi, 1. To be on the safe side, call: +39 0774/828715.
Art everywhere
Not everyone knows that the maestro Ennio Morricone was an honorary citizen and very attached to the village. He dedicated two compositions to Cervara: “Notturno-Passacaglia per Cervara” and “Cervara di Roma.”
Cervara is not just about modern art; it has an ancient history dating back to medieval times. The Church of the Visitation, located at the highest point, retains a solemn atmosphere and offers breathtaking views of the Aniene Valley. Also worth seeing is the Medieval Fortress with the remains of the ancient fortification of the Abbey of Subiaco, which dominates the entire surrounding landscape.
Trekking and nature too
A few kilometers from the town center lies a wonderful karst plateau, perfect for trekking in summer and cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in winter. Although every trip to Cervara requires a bit of physical exercise. Located in the heart of the Monti Simbruini Regional Nature Park, it offers a choice of over 40 marked trails for nature excursions.
Cervara is a place of silence and contemplation, perfect if you want to get away from the chaos of the capital and immerse yourself in an almost dreamlike atmosphere.
What to eat in Cervara di Roma
The cuisine of Cervara di Roma reflects its agricultural and pastoral roots, offering a culinary experience typical of the Lazio Apennines. The local menu celebrates the flavors of the forest and livestock farming: highlights include first courses with porcini mushrooms and truffles, barbecued sheep meat (such as castrato) and a selection of sheep’s milk cheeses, including ricotta and artisan pecorino.
The offer is enriched by typical cured meats, legumes, and homemade bread. For those seeking an authentic experience, Trattoria Ferrari is a historic landmark, particularly appreciated for its ricotta ravioli and mushroom-based specialties.