Discover Labico: Local History, Tuff Stone, and Routes to the Springs

Historic Labico and Tuff Stone

In the historic center of Labico, the remains of two towers from Lugnano Castle have been preserved. The Church of Sant’Andrea Apostolo was built in the 17th century, while Palazzo Giuliani was established in the 16th century as a post station for changing horses along the Via Casilina. These three historical references reveal different sides of the town: castle remains, religious architecture, and the history of a transport route.

The Arnari complex consists of structures carved entirely out of tuff stone. The large Roman cistern Grotta Mammea is also located near Labico. Present-day Labico itself is built on a tuff stone spur. Those interested in architecture, ancient infrastructure, and the distinctive character of historic places will find several tangible points of interest here.

Trails through Forests and Water Landscapes

For orientation in the area, the Percorso delle Fonti is clearly laid out: it is signposted and starts and ends at Piazza della Libertà in the center of Labico. Over a distance of 5.8 kilometers, it runs along the Valle delle Canapine, beside the tuff stone spur on which present-day Labico was built. The trail passes through chestnut, hazelnut, and hornbeam forests.

Along the Percorso delle Fonti, numerous Roman water tunnels supply springs; six of them still carry fresh water. The trail passes the old Lavatoio, which is still in use. Its water comes from a Roman tunnel approximately 220 meters long. There is also an equipped rest area at the Fontanile dei Pischerelli.

The Percorso dei Boattieri

Another trail connection is the Percorso dei Boattieri. In Labico, it crosses the Valle Travicella and forms part of a route through three valleys. Within the municipal area, the trail runs level past fields shaded by hazelnut and walnut trees. At the beginning of the Labico section is the Fontana di Sassi Grossi. Beyond it is a tunnel carved into the tuff stone to supply water.

At the Fontanile della Forma along the Percorso delle Fonti are the remains of a bridge dating from the Republican period. The Percorso dei Boattieri has been documented since at least 1500; individual features suggest that it was already in use during the Middle Ages. Thus, the trails bring together natural landscapes, water infrastructure, and traces of history.

Festivals and Local Products

The local festival tradition includes the Festa di San Rocco. It features a ceremonial procession through the streets of Labico and is celebrated every year with several events. These begin before August 16, the feast day, and include, among other things, gatherings in the town’s streets.

Among the local products, Piselli di Labico (Roncolette Labicane) represents an old traditional product. The staggered harvest of Piselli di Labico (Roncolette Labicane) takes place in June.

More Destinations

For comparing other Italian destinations, you can also consider Castel Madama, Montelibretti, Santa Marta, Santa Severa, Ardea, Bellegra, Spinaceto, and Tivoli Terme.

For the higher-level travel overview: Rome.