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Cassino, a journey through time: from the Rocca Janula to the pilgrim paths of the saints
In the heart of Lazio, Cassino is a city reborn. Marked by the bombardment of 1944, today it is a crossroads of stories, the arrival point of the Way of Saint Benedict and the departure point for new adventures. Every stone here speaks of destruction and reconstruction, an invitation to discover a place full of surprises.
A fortress, an abbey and Roman roots
The climb to the Rocca Janula offers a view that commands the entire valley. From here the gaze reaches all the way to the imposing Abbey of Montecassino, the city's spiritual symbol. Further down in the valley, the Archaeological Area of Casinum preserves the well-conserved remains of the theatre, the amphitheatre and the mausoleum of Ummidia Quadratilla.
At a slow pace, along the paths of faith
Cassino is pilgrim country. It is the final destination of the route from Norcia following in the footsteps of Saint Benedict. But it is also a new beginning. From here the Way of Saint Philip Neri sets out, a lesser-known itinerary that winds for 120 kilometres down to the sea at Gaeta, retracing a journey made in the sixteenth century.
An unexpected oasis of peace
For those seeking a different kind of pause, there are the Terme Varroniane. Their oligomineral waters flow amid greenery, over the remains of an ancient villa belonging to the man of letters Marcus Terentius Varro. A relaxing conclusion to an intense journey through history.
Opening times vary across the sites. It is advisable to consult the official portals before visiting for up-to-date information.
