Albano Laziale, mother or son of Rome?

Albano Laziale is a lively town in the Castelli Romani region, about 40 minutes from Rome, and it is undoubtedly worth a visit—especially with us, as we will open the doors to its archaeological treasures, usually closed to the public.

 

Although the town takes its name from Alba Longa, the legendary mother city of Rome from which the twins Romulus and Remus came, it is actually of Roman origin. It was Emperor Septimius Severus who established a Castrum there for his legions to defend Rome. His son Caracalla expanded it, and it remained a military city until the fall of the Empire.

 

Luckily for us, many of the ancient structures have survived to this day, blending with the road network and the medieval and modern neighborhoods. We will visit churches built within thermal halls and nymphaea, discover ancient walls, but above all, we will gain access to the Amphitheater built for gladiatorial games and the surprising underground cistern, one of the largest in Italy.