Guidonia Montecelio
Guidonia Montecelio is a town and comune in the Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, in the Lazio region of central Italy.
Here is a brief overview of its history, location, and key points of interest.
Location and General Information
- Location: Guidonia Montecelio is situated northeast of Rome and is part of the Rome metropolitan area.
- Region: Lazio
- Province: Metropolitan City of Rome Capital
History
- Ancient Origins: The area has ancient origins, including the Roman era with the town of Corniculum, which was conquered by Tarquinius Priscus.
- Modern Founding: The modern town of Guidonia was established in 1937 under Benito Mussolini as a “Fascist Planned Town.”
- Name Origin: The name was chosen to honor the air force general Alessandro Guidoni (1880–1928), who died in an air force facility nearby while testing a new parachute. The town was formed by joining the original village of Montecelio (the ancient, hilltop part) and the newer town of Guidonia (the part on the plain).
- Economy: The local economy is known for its industry, particularly travertine quarries and the cement industry.
Key Attractions and Things to Do
Guidonia Montecelio and the surrounding area offer a mix of historical, natural, and recreational sites.
Local Attractions in Guidonia Montecelio
- Montecelio Medieval Village: The ancient part of the comune is a hilltop village featuring the remains of the Medieval Fortress of Montecelio (Rocca) and offering panoramic views.
- Archaeological Museums:
- Archaeological Museum Rodolfo Lanciani: Located in the former Convent of San Michele.
- Museum of Via Cornicolana: Located in the crypt of St. Mary’s Church in Setteville.
- Inviolata Park (Parco dell’Inviolata): A protected natural area.
- Acque Albule Sulphurous Springs (Terme di Roma): Thermal baths supplied by the carbon-sulfur springs of the Regina and Colonelle lakes, known for their wellness and therapeutic paths.
- Marco Simone Golf and Country Club: This golf course is internationally known as the host of the 2023 Ryder Cup.
- Littoria Tower (Torre Littoria): A massive six-story tower that evokes medieval architecture, part of the original core of the planned town.
Nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites (in Tivoli)
Guidonia Montecelio is located near the historic town of Tivoli, which is home to several major tourist destinations:
- Villa Adriana (Hadrian’s Villa): The monumental complex of the Roman Emperor Hadrian.
- Villa d’Este: Famous for its stunning Renaissance garden and elaborate water features and fountains.
- Villa Gregoriana: A park known for its beautiful waterfalls and ancient ruins.