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Visiting Itri: the legend of the brigand Fra' Diavolo and the flavour of Itri olives
Itri lies halfway between the Aurunci Mountains and the sea. Visiting means immersing yourself in an authentic slice of the Latium region. This is not only the hometown of the celebrated brigand Fra' Diavolo, but also the birthplace of the Itrana olive — the variety many know simply as the “Gaeta” olive. The medieval castle presides over the scene from the top of the hill.
A town of traditions and fire
Every March, the town is ablaze with the Fuochi di San Giuseppe, the Fires of St Joseph. In this deeply felt tradition, enormous bonfires are lit in the town's squares to celebrate the end of winter, symbolised by a straw effigy — the "màmmuòcc'" — placed at the very top of the pyre. And drifting through the air comes the scent of fried zeppole, the sweet pastry that is the hallmark of the feast.
Beyond the castle, the ancient Appian Way
The eye is always drawn to the medieval castle, the heart of Itri. But history here reaches far beyond its walls. Walking just two kilometres along the original paving stones of the Via Appia Antica, through the striking Sant'Andrea gorge, this becomes abundantly clear. The path winds its way between imposing Roman-era retaining walls and the remains of a Bourbon fortification.
For up-to-date information on events, museums and guided tours, visitors are advised to consult the official website of the Municipality of Itri or the local Pro Loco tourist office.
