Grottaferrata is one of the gems of the Castelli Romani, located on the slopes of Monte Cavo. It is about 20-25 km from the center of Rome. Compared to other towns in the area, it stands out for its more elegant and residential atmosphere, closely linked to its thousand-year history and unique urban layout. The town center is small, with shops and bars mainly located on Corso del Popolo.
Why is it called the “Garden City”?
The name “Garden City” is not only a tribute to its natural beauty, but also derives from a specific urban and historical choice. Grottaferrata is reminiscent of the English Garden Cities. Here, in the city center, the buildings are in symbiosis with nature, with no uncontrolled construction.
The city’s fabric is characterized by stately villas, surrounded by large private gardens and connected by streets rich in public green areas. Surrounded by parks and olive groves, the city serves as a green lung for the southern part of Rome, maintaining a low population density that preserves the feeling of living in a large, sprawling park.
What not to miss
In addition to its reputation as a garden city, Grottaferrata is famous forthe Greek Abbey of San Nilo, founded in 1004. It is a unique place in the world: a Byzantine monastery on Italian soil that still follows the Eastern rite, surrounded by walls that make it resemble a medieval fortress. Sitting on a bench inside the complex offers moments of peace.
Also worth seeing is Villa Grazioli, one of Lazio’s historic residences.
How to get there
It is located about 20-25 km from the center of Rome. It is easily accessible by car via Via Anagnina or Via Tuscolana. The journey usually takes 30-40 minutes, traffic permitting. By train, the nearest station is Frascati, from where you can continue with a short bus ride or even on foot for a scenic walk.