Santa Severa and Tolfa, which are a few kilometres from Civitavecchia, Italy’s biggest cruise port, and respectively an hour, and 90 minutes, from Rome, are a sea and a mountain pearl in the heart of the Lazio region.
Santa Severa: the charm of the sea and history
Santa Severa is a hamlet of the municipality of Santa Marinella, best known for its castle by the sea. Built in the Middle Ages on a pre-existing Etruscan and Roman site, the Castle of Santa Severa is in a unique position right on the beach. It can be visited and regularly hosts museums, exhibitions and cultural events year-round. It is also possible to stay in the Medieval village in the fortress, which has 14 rooms, nine of which with sea views.
Tolfa. Traditions and nature
Tolfa, a Medieval village rich in history and culture, lies some 25 kilometres inland from Santa Severa on a mountain ridge next to the sea. Known in the past for its alum mining, today it is a virtuous example of how local heritage can be enhanced. The historic centre retains its Medieval layout with narrow alleys, small squares and lovely views. On the highest point of the village, from the ruins of the Castle of the Rocca, there are splendid views and the small Medieval church of the Madonna della Rocca. Tolfa is also home to the famous “Tolfa” leather bag, a handcrafted product that has been handed down through generations.
Santa Severa and Tolfa are two contrasting sides of the same territory, set between the blue Tyrrhenian Sea and the green Lazio hills, and are perfect for a day outing or weekend itinerary.
