Exploring Civitavecchia: Ancient Wonders & Timeless Beauty

Lake in quaint town of AnguillaraPhoto bythe Author

The Splendor of Civitavecchia

Italy has so much to explore. During our most recent Mediterranean cruise, one stop was in Civitavecchia. Civitavecchia, Italy, is a place filled with history and beauty. As we stepped off the cruise ship onto the cobblestone streets, the charm of this coastal town northwest of Rome immediately struck me. The sea breeze filled the air and the sound of seagulls added to the picturesque scene. We wandered through the streets, marveling at the ancient buildings and the remnants of the Roman Dock, which spoke volumes about the town’s rich past. The Port of Civitavecchia, originally built in the 2nd century, still stands strong, welcoming visitors from around the world.

Our Tour Began with Castello di Torre in Pietra Cellar

On this day, we chose a wine-tasting tour, a visit to the famous Bracciano Lake, and a stroll through the quaint town of Anguillara. The wine tasting was at Castello di Torre in Pietra Cellar. As we approached the medieval village of Torre in Pietra, the anticipation of what lay ahead filled me with excitement. The sun cast a warm glow over the gentle hills, where the vineyards of Castello di Torre in Pietra Cellar thrived. This picturesque landscape seemed to breathe with a timeless elegance, and I couldn’t help but marvel at the organic beauty surrounding me.

Upon entering the cellar, the rich history that emanated from every stone of the ancient structure left me in awe. The cool, earthy air and the soft glow of torches created a sense of mystery and allure as if I had stepped into a forgotten realm frozen in time. As the tour guide led us through the underground passages, I couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of connection to the land and the centuries-old traditions of winemaking. The guide’s passionate descriptions of how the cellar was obtained by unearthing the tuff of the hill behind the castle, and its historical use in the production and conservation of wine since the 1500s, transported me to an era of true craftsmanship and dedication.

Moving deeper into the cellar, rows of oak barrels and the subtle aroma of aging wine surrounded us. Every aspect of winemaking here was carried out with unwavering passion, attention, and respect for the territory. The guide’s storytelling of the vineyards, on the gentle hills of tuff and breccia, within the Doc Roma area and cultivated organically, further deepened my appreciation for the artistry and dedication of those who tended to the vines.

Finally, the moment I had been eagerly awaiting arrived—the wine tasting. Each sip revealed the essence of the land, the labor of love, and the commitment to preserving a legacy of winemaking that had endured through the ages. Tapas accompanied the wine tasting to cleanse our palates between each wine.

Leaving the cellar, I carried with me not only the lingering flavors of the exceptional wines but also a profound respect for the history and traditions that intertwined with every vine and every drop of wine produced here. It was an experience that had captured my heart and soul, leaving me with a renewed appreciation for the timeless beauty and dedication that defines this exceptional place.

Lake Bracciano

Our next stop was Lake Bracciano. Lake Bracciano, a stunning body of water of volcanic origin, is in the breathtaking Italian region of Lazio. This captivating lake, the second largest in the region, is renowned as one of the major natural jewels of Italy.

The Quaint town of Anguillara

The last stop for the day was at the quaint town of Anguillara. As we took the leisurely ride along the picturesque perimeter of the lake, we enjoyed breathtaking views of rolling hills and dramatic volcanic cliffs. Our journey led us to the charming and beautifully preserved medieval town of Anguillara. Here, we discovered the enchanting Piazza del Comune, adorned with magnificent historic buildings and offering a truly spectacular panoramic view of the tranquil lake.

Winding Down for the Day

As the sun began to set, we found ourselves at a quaint cafe, Cafe del Corso, savoring delicious Italian coffee and pastry while overlooking the tranquil waters of the lake. The day had been a journey through time, and as I reflected on the beauty of Civitavecchia, I realized that its allure lay not only in its ancient wonders but also in the warmth of its people and the serenity that permeated its streets. Civitavecchia had left an indelible mark on my heart, and as I boarded the cruise ship once more, I knew that I carried a piece of its magic with me, a memory to treasure forever.