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Collevecchio in Sabina: the village that was once a papal capital, one hour from Rome
Collevecchio overlooks the Tiber Valley, 60 km from Rome, in the heart of the Reatine Sabina region. For two centuries it was the seat of the Pontifical Governor of Sabina, which resulted in the historic centre being full of noble palaces and papal prisons, in a town of just over 1,500 inhabitants.
From Mozzano to the old hill
The story begins in 1253, when Pope Innocent IV authorised the inhabitants of the unhealthy village of Mozzano to move to a higher hill. In 1368 the Orsini family took over. Then, in 1605, came the turning point: Pope Paul V Borghese chose the village as the seat of the Governorate of Sabina, at the urging of Paolo Coperchi, apostolic commissioner and a native of Collevecchio.
What to see
In the main square is the Collegiate Church of the Annunziata (late 12th century), housing a polychrome wooden crucifix from the 8th–9th century — a rare Christus triumphans, depicting Christ alive on the cross. Just outside the town centre, the Capuchin Convent, annexed to the Church of Sant'Andrea (St Andrew), is part of the Historic Residences Network of Lazio. The friars lived there until 1968, leading a life of work and prayer. Today it is a hospitality venue hosting groups of guests for training and meditation events.
