In the heart of Tuscia, Grotte di Castro stands proudly on a tuff cliff of the Volsini Mountains, at 467 meters above sea level. This village, overlooking the northwestern side of Lake Bolsena, is a treasure trove of history, traditions, and natural beauty that captivates every visitor.
The origins of Grotte di Castro trace back to antiquity, dating to the Etruscan period. Numerous necropolises, such as those of Pianezze and Vigna la Piazza, testify to the vibrancy of a civilization that thrived in these lands as early as the 7th century BCE. Walking through the area, it is easy to imagine the glorious Etruscan past, while the Archaeological and Folk Traditions Museum, located in the heart of the historic center, offers a rich collection of artifacts that tell this millennia-old story.
The Middle Ages saw the birth of Grotte di Castro as a safe haven following the destruction of the nearby city of Civita. Over the centuries, the village experienced periods of splendor under the rule of the Farnese family and moments of deep religious devotion, as evidenced by the magnificent Basilica Sanctuary of Maria SS. del Suffragio. This Baroque gem houses exquisite wooden inlays and a polychrome statue of the Madonna.
The narrow streets of Grotte di Castro’s historic center offer picturesque views and monuments of great significance. The Town Hall, designed by Vignola in the 16th century, features a spiral stone staircase of extraordinary beauty. Nearby, in Piazza Cavour, a plaque commemorates the feat of General Umberto Nobile, who honored the village by carrying a local pennant with him during his 1926 flight over the North Pole.
Grotte di Castro is renowned not only for its history but also for its agricultural vocation. Here, vineyards, olive groves, and wheat fields blend with the production of high-quality potatoes, the true centerpiece of local culinary traditions. Every year, from August 11th to 15th, the village hosts the Sagra della Patata, an unmissable event to savor traditional dishes and experience the town’s convivial atmosphere.
For summer visitors, the “Vivi il lago” festival, held on the first Sunday of August, offers an unforgettable day by the shores of Lake Bolsena, featuring local delicacies and breathtaking views.
