The proximity to Rome – first under the Roman Empire, then the Papacy, and later the Italian state – may have made Ciociaria, the coastal area of Lower Lazio, and the lands now part of the Abruzzo National Park the stage for historical events, intrigues, and exploits that shaped the destiny of these regions. Land of ancient peoples such as the Hernici, Volsci, and Samnites, this area has been the birthplace of notable and controversial figures, from famous military leaders and popes to brigands and revolutionaries. Here, stories of glory and defeat, resistance and domination have emerged, leaving an indelible mark on the collective memory and cultural heritage of southern Lazio.
The unique geographical features of Ciociaria, the coastline of Basso Lazio, and the areas within the Abruzzo National Park, stretching from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Apennine peaks, give rise to remarkable natural phenomena, often unique in Italy. From the spectacular Pastena and Collepardo Caves to volcanic and karst lakes, from the ancient beech forests of the park—recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—to the rugged coastlines and picturesque sandy dunes of the Riviera di Ulisse, this region offers an extraordinary variety of landscapes protected by natural reserves and parks. A heritage that tells the story of millions of years of geological history and continues to captivate researchers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts.