Just a two-hour drive from Rome Amatrice, a small town in the province of Rieti, is universally admired for its resilience, rich flavors and beautiful landscapes.
A town famous for its Amatriciana pasta
Known worldwide for its iconic Pasta all’Amatriciana, Amatrice which is in the Lazio region not far from the border with Abruzzo, is much more than its culinary fame. It is a place where the effects of nature’s forces - both the beauty of the landscape and the tragic impact of an earthquake - tell a story of resilience and recovery. The journey from Rome to Amatrice takes a couple of hours by car, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway from the Eternal City. 
A dish to be tried in its most authentic form
Amatrice’s fame stems from its signature dish, the famous Pasta all'Amatriciana made with a sauce of pork cheek, tomatoes, and Pecorino cheese, which is one of the most admired symbols of Lazio’s culinary heritage. Local restaurants and trattorias serve up the dish in its most authentic form, often with ingredients sourced from the surrounding region. The dish, however, represents more than just food; it’s a testament to the town’s cultural legacy.
The town is rebuilding after the earthquake
In 2016, Amatrice shot to global fame for another reason, this time a tragic one, as on the night of August 24, an earthquake of devastating magnitude struck the region, destroying much of the town and the neighboring village of Accumuli. The destruction was widespread, leaving most of the buildings and homes in ruins, but amid the devastation, the spirit of Amatrice remained unbroken. Today, while the scars of the earthquake are still visible, the town is slowly rebuilding with many of its landmarks and buildings having been restored.
A paradise for nature lovers
Visitors to Amatrice also like to explore the natural beauty that surrounds it. For those seeking nature adventures, the area offers a range of hiking routes suitable for all levels of experience, and for seasoned trekkers, a climb up Monte Gorzano, the highest peak in Lazio at 2,458 meters, provides a challenging yet rewarding experience. For less experienced hikers, there are plenty of accessible walks through the forest and along streams, particularly towards the waterfalls that cascade through the area in the spring and summer months.
Commemorating the 2016 earthquake
For a more contemplative experience, the Cammino delle Terre Mutate is a trail dedicated to the memories of the 2016 earthquake, offering not just natural beauty but a deep sense of connection to the past and the rebuilding effort. For information: https://www.amatriceturismo.it
