Apartment rental in Rieti Province, Italy - Medieval Castle Near Rome - Property 135257

A few steps removed from the modern world: This spacious apartment, on main floor of 16th century palazzo in the hill town of Roccantica, is sure to dazzle anyone with a taste for the Italian countryside and vivid traditions that go back centuries. Less than an hour from Rome by car, Roccantica is deeply touched by the aura of medieval Italy, with village life, traditional festivals, marvelous wines and local cuisine, and stunning panoramas of the Sabine Hills. The apartment is on the second floor of a palazzo first built for a noble family in the 1500s. Seven great arched windows overlook Monte Soratte and explosive sunsets to the west. Large rooms and chestnut-beamed ceilings give the place an enchanted and spacious feel. A hanging garden, with wood-burning grill and outdoor dining table is just off the kitchen. Also includes satellite television, telephone has special internet hookup, and an elevator which is available but not necessary.

On the edge of the Sabine Hills: Roccantica is one of the historic landmark towns of the Sabine Hills or Sabina. It is a remarkably intact medieval village with a history reaching back to the 800s when it was settled by Roman nobles high above the Tibur Valley. Today, the town's summit is dominated by the ruins of a medieval fortress and sanctuary visible from miles away. Roccantica is reached by a single road that climbs to its altitude of nearly 600 meters. While cars can be driven around the perimeter the steeply pitched site, the historic center of Roccantica is accessible only by its network of stone walks and stairways in the classic style of an Italian hill town. It is remarkable that a village of such timeless charm should be so close to Rome, which is easily accessible by car or by train.

The endless pleasures of village life: Village life has changed little in the last generations in Roccantica. Small groceries serve daily needs (though supermarkets are nearby as well). Fruit and vegetable dealers make regular appearances in the main piazza. Restaurants serve local tastes and pocketbooks. Roccantica has several local festivals each year--the main ones coming in March and August--which involve music, Renaissance theatrics, sbandieratori (ceremonial flag throwers), local traditional cuisine, and exhibits of art glass (from the local glass academy), painting, and fine wrought iron work. Other nearby destinations of historic interest are the Abbey at Farfa, archaeological sites at Vescovio and Fiano Romano, and the ancient walled city of Rieti. Just a little farther north in Umbria is the ceramic center of Deruta. The sulphur baths of Orte and Viterbo are an hour away. This in an opportunity to create your own memorable vacation in the heart of Italy.

Other Activities: rock climbing, festivals, olive picking, historical tourism