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Ciciliano: a private historic residence and an ancient Roman city
Ciciliano is located in the hills of the Monti Prenestini, less than an hour from Rome. It is not your typical medieval village. Its uniqueness lies in a double identity: the fortress of the Castello Theodoli, a private historic residence, and a hidden one underground: the remains of the Roman city of Trebula Suffenas.
The village and its fortress
The historic centre is a web of alleyways and steps leading up to Castello Theodoli, which has been owned by the same family since 1576 — a rare distinction. Its majestic architecture conceals a curious detail: one of the four corner bastions is circular.
A leap into ancient Rome
Just outside the village, time jumps back two thousand years. The remains of Trebula Suffenas, a Roman city, came to light almost by chance. Visitors can walk along ancient basalt roads and see the forum. A site that even the poet Martial recommended as a cool summer retreat.
Living traditions throughout the year
History comes alive through local traditions. In spring there is the Sagra delle Sagne co' gliu Peco (pasta with mutton sauce festival), and the Infiorata del Corpus Domini (flower carpet festival), when the streets are decorated with flower petals. Summer is the peak of the celebrations: in August the Festa di Santa Liberata takes place, alongside the famous Panarda, a grand medieval banquet held in the square on the 19th of the month.
For up-to-date information on events and local hospitality, it is possible to consult the official channels of the Municipality of Ciciliano.
