The route we propose is a fascinating itinerary through charming villages and enchanting landscapes, immersed in the picturesque countryside of medieval Sabina.
Tipologia
Car and Walking Route
Numero Tappe
4
Durata
3.30h/span>
Difficoltà
Medium
Punto di Partenza
Toffia
Toffia, Abbazia di Farfa, Montopoli di Sabina, Poggio Mirteto
Artistic Trail
Itinerario
The route we propose is a fascinating itinerary through charming villages and enchanting landscapes, immersed in the picturesque countryside of medieval Sabina.
Our journey begins in a small perched village that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes: Toffia. Easily reached from Rome via the Salaria highway, take the Rieti/Casali di Poggio Nativo exit at Km 49.2 in the direction of Toffia on Via Farense, and in about 8 minutes we reach the village.
Toffia, with its origins in the early Middle Ages attested as early as 940, gained importance in the 1300s by becoming the second seat of the bishop of Sabina. In the 1400s, the city walls were enlarged and the Rocca and Porta Maggiore were built. The Orsini Palace dates from the 15th century, while the Church of San Lorenzo (10th century) and the parish church of San Maria Nuova (16th century) are definitely worth a visit.
From Toffia, our tour continues to Farfa Abbey, taking the Via Farense heading east, following the signs for Farfa. The mysterious origins of the Abbey date back to the 6th century, founded by St. Lawrence Siro. Over the centuries, Benedictine monks have enriched the structure and the village, making the Abbey an undisputed “queen” of places of worship.
The Abbey Church, dating from the mid-15th century, is preceded by a 13th-century Romanesque-style courtyard. The three-aisled interior houses a remarkable Last Judgment attributed to Flemish painter Hendrick van der Broek. In addition to the church, the village offers craft stores in perfect medieval style.
Continuing toward Granica and Montopoli di Sabina, the territory of Montopoli is rich in traces of human settlement, with remains dating back to the Upper Paleolithic. The Villa Terenzio Varrone, known as “I Casoni,” is a splendid building from the 2nd century BC.
The itinerary finally reaches the largest town in the Bassa Sabina, Poggio Mirteto. Founded in the 13th century, it was a strategic point and went through important historical events, including the period of resistance during World War II.
The town, divided into two parts by the Farnese Gate, shows its rich history through the Abbey Palace, the Clock Tower and the charming alleys within the ancient 14th-century walls. The Cathedral, dedicated to the Martyrs of Liberty, is an imposing presence on the main square. Other churches of interest include San Rocco and San Paolo.
There are also many rustic Roman villas around Poggio Mirteto, with the Villa I Bagni di Lucilla well worth a visit.
Our fascinating itinerary ends here, but Sabina still offers much to explore. These suggestions will hopefully inspire broader trips to discover the beauty and history of this fascinating region.