Alatri Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the historic town in Lazio
Table of Contents
Alatri
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Latest page update: 23 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The medieval walled town of Alatri lies in the heart of the Ciociaria region of Lazio's Frosinone Province. Driving up the hill to the town you reach a little piazza where the defensive wall is still standing and incorporated into the modern body of the town.
Entering through the Porta San Francesco you begin to wander the streets of the town that dates back some three thousand years. |
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The main square in the town is Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore, named after the Basilica of the same name. At the centre of the Piazza just in front of the Basilica is the Fontana Pia: a decorative fountain built in 1870 in honour of Pope Pius IX.
It's tempting to think this pretty square and its impressive church are the main sights in the town, but that's not the case. Alatri's real beauty lies as you make your way gradually to the top of the town to reach the Acropolis.
Known locally as Civita, the Acropolis is the upper citadel of Alatri which climbs to 502 metres above sea level. Within this area is the Cattedrale di San Paolo, at the centre of a landscaped park area which provides wonderful panoramic views of the local area.
It's tempting to think this pretty square and its impressive church are the main sights in the town, but that's not the case. Alatri's real beauty lies as you make your way gradually to the top of the town to reach the Acropolis.
Known locally as Civita, the Acropolis is the upper citadel of Alatri which climbs to 502 metres above sea level. Within this area is the Cattedrale di San Paolo, at the centre of a landscaped park area which provides wonderful panoramic views of the local area.
La Città dei Ciclopi
Alatri comes with the moniker La Città dei Ciclopi, which is in reference to the building method by which the wall of the Acropolis was constructed. Cyclopean Masonry or Mura Poligonali comes from Mycenaean architecture with walls constructed of large limestone rocks with little or no mortar holding them together.
History
Alatri has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was originally founded by the ancient Italic tribe of the Hernici and later became an important Roman colony.
The town is renowned for its Cyclopean walls, which are massive polygonal stone fortifications that date back to the 7th and 6th centuries BC. These walls are considered some of the best-preserved examples of pre-Roman architecture in Italy.
In medieval times, Alatri was ruled by various noble families, including the powerful Conti d'Alatri. The town played a significant role in the region's history during the Middle Ages, and its strategic location made it a prized possession for many ruling powers.
The town is renowned for its Cyclopean walls, which are massive polygonal stone fortifications that date back to the 7th and 6th centuries BC. These walls are considered some of the best-preserved examples of pre-Roman architecture in Italy.
In medieval times, Alatri was ruled by various noble families, including the powerful Conti d'Alatri. The town played a significant role in the region's history during the Middle Ages, and its strategic location made it a prized possession for many ruling powers.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Cyclopean Walls: One of the main attractions in Alatri is the Cyclopean walls, also known as "Mura Ciclopiche." These impressive fortifications encircle the ancient acropolis and offer visitors a glimpse into the town's ancient past.
- Alatri Cathedral: The Cathedral of San Paolo is a beautiful Romanesque church located in the heart of the town. It features intricate architecture and stunning frescoes.
- Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore: This charming square is surrounded by historic buildings and is a lovely spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere of Alatri.
- Museo Civico Archeologico: The Archaeological Museum of Alatri houses an interesting collection of artifacts, including ancient pottery, sculptures, and items from the town's rich history.
- Views from Acropolis: From the ancient acropolis, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Sacco Valley.
- Palazzo Gottifredo: This medieval palace is a striking example of medieval architecture and is worth a visit for its historical significance.
- Festivals and Events: Alatri hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating local traditions, music, and culture.
- Local Cuisine: The town offers a range of traditional Italian cuisine, and visitors can enjoy dishes featuring local produce and regional specialties.
Comune di Alatri
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Province: Frosinone
Region: Lazio Population: 27,639 (in 2024 - source) Size: 97 km² Elevation: 502 metres Highlights: Acropoli di Alatri, Cattedrale di San Paolo Where to stay: Monastero di Sant'Erasmo (10 km) Where to eat: Bisteccheria La Taverna dei Principi |
