Sasso: Village, Cliff and Traces of History

Sasso between Village, Rock and History

The old district of Borgo del Sasso lies at around 310 metres above sea level at the foot of Monte Santo. Above Sasso rises a rocky cliff locally known as “Scoglio di Sant’Antonio” or “Il Monte”, preserving remains of masonry dating from the 12th century. Here, a clearly recognisable historic centre combines with a distinctive rocky landscape.

Panoramic Road and Medieval Historic Centre

The panoramic road to Sasso rises steadily and passes the formations known as the Sassoni di Furbara. Because of their shape and colour, the large rocky peaks resemble the peaks of the Dolomites. This striking landscape accompanies the approach to the village and explains why Sasso is shaped not only by its architectural history but also by its geological formations.

The medieval Borgo del Sasso is entered through a battlemented gate. A fortified palace stands on the village square; it was built in 1552 by the marquises Patrizi. The gate, village square and palace therefore mark key elements of the historic townscape, which can be clearly distinguished from one another when finding your way through the Borgo.

Church Architecture and Patrizi History

The Chiesa di Santa Croce is the most important ecclesiastical complex in Borgo del Sasso. Filippo Patrizi founded it in the 16th century as the church of the palace and the small village that developed around it. The building has a single-nave layout with two side chapels. For travellers interested in culture, the church thus provides a tangible insight into the connection between the seat of power, the development of the village and sacred architecture.

Rocky Cliff, Castle Remains and Older Traces

The rocky cliff above the village is associated with several historical references. The medieval Castello del Sasso stood on one of its rocky peaks; it was abandoned after repeated incursions by the Saracens. The cliff also preserves the ruins of a hermitage belonging to monks who followed Saint Anthony.

Sasso’s earlier past is also tangible: the village contains traces of an Etruscan settlement and remains of Roman masonry structures. During the Middle Neolithic, the Grotta Patrizi served as a burial site for seven interments. The documented history of the village therefore extends from Neolithic burials through Etruscan and Roman traces to medieval and early modern buildings.

Nature, Water and Local Tradition

Sughereta del Sasso is designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). In the hamlet of Pian Della Carlotta is the Acque Cerette thermal complex, which was particularly known for its sulphurous waters in Roman times. Both subjects complement the history of the rocks and buildings with nature and ancient use, without allowing any conclusions to be drawn about current opening hours or present-day availability.

Cib’Arte was a traditional event held every summer in the medieval Borgo del Sasso. The second edition took place on 26, 27 and 28 July 2024. When choosing accommodation in Sasso, you can therefore decide whether the historic Borgo, the rocky cliff, the archaeological traces or the landscape should be the focus of your travel planning.

More Destinations

For further orientation, you can also consider Torrimpietra, Cesano, Palombara Sabina, Castel Madama, Cerveteri, Ladispoli and Gerano.

For the higher-level travel overview: Rome.

More About the Destination

Relevant information for planning your trip:

Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park.