The Castel Gandolfo

Legend narrates that long ago Ascanio founded the city of Alba Longa on the edge of a vulcanic crater which today is Lake Albano. Five centuries of splendor to be followed by great destruction and then again luxourious life with magnificent villas framing this beautiful landscape. In 1956 this land and the castle was acquired by the Gandolfs and Savellis from the Apostolistic Lodgings which today remains the summer residence of the Pope. Situated 22 kilometers from Rome at a height of 436 meters, Castel Gondolfo is the land of Roman Castles rich in tradition and excellent local cuisine.

In the main square, where the Pontif Palace is found, one can admire the Church of Saint Thomas of Villanova, work of Gianlorenzo Bernini,the villas of the Roman families Torlonia and Barberini and the Villa Diana. As mentioned earlier, the surrounding Lake Albano is of vulcanic origin. During the summer season the north shore is opened up and populated by canoeists and many paths can be found as well on the eastern shore. One can also find a splendid 18 hole golf course, created by Robert Trent Jones near the Rock of Castel Gandolfo situated in an antique vulcanic crater.