Between Ruins and Wilderness – the Riserva Naturale Monterano

🏞️Hidden History in the Midst of Wild Nature

Hidden in the wooded hills north of Rome lies a place that is both dilapidated and fascinating, lonely and full of history: the Riserva Naturale Regionale Monterano. The former town of Monterano was abandoned in the 18th century, leaving behind an impressive backdrop of ruins embedded in a landscape of gorges, forests and sulphurous springs.

🌳 A Ruined City Full of Stories

The ruins of the ancient town of Monterano lie on a wooded tufa plateau with spectacular views of the surrounding hills. Once inhabited by Etruscans, Monterano flourished in the Middle Ages and was remodelled in the 17th century under the Altieri family. A volcanic eruption, a malaria epidemic and finally the destruction by Napoleon’s troops led to the decline of the town.

Today, hardly anything remains of its former life – and yet the ruins speak an impressive language.

🏛 Church and Convent of St Bonaventure

The ruins of the church of San Bonaventura are one of the most famous photo motifs in Monterano. Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, it impresses with its baroque façade and its picturesque embedding in nature. Ivy and shrubs have reclaimed the walls, creating an almost mystical impression. The church was part of a Franciscan monastery that once formed the spiritual centre of the city.

🏢 The Palazzo Ducale – Nobility Between Decay

A little further to the west, the mighty Palazzo Ducale towers over the tuff plateau. This building was also erected under the Altieri family in the 17th century. Despite its ruinous state, the former splendour of the aristocratic residence can still be glimpsed. Inner courtyards, staircases and the striking window openings are clearly recognisable. In combination with the view of the neighbouring aqueduct and the surrounding hilly landscape, this is an ideal location for drone shots.

💦 Sulphurous Water and Hidden Gorges

Another natural wonder of the Riserva is the Cascata della Diosilla waterfall, whose sulphurous water cascades down reddish-brown rock faces and flows into a milky-turquoise pool. From here, the small stream continues towards the deep gorge called Fosso del Bicione. Mosses, ferns and fallen trees give the valley an almost primeval atmosphere. This is a colourful natural spectacle, especially in autumn.

🚗 Insider Tip for the Journey

Although the official car park is signposted, it is difficult to reach via an extremely narrow and sometimes uneven road. In addition, the car park is often closed in the low season.

Insider tip: The small car park at the beginning of the gorge is accessible via a narrow, well-paved road. Coming from Canale Monterano, turn onto the SP3A, after about 1.2 km a small road branches off to the right – easy to miss as it is not signposted as an official access point. It is best to follow the coordinates directly: N42° 07.896‘ E12° 05.427’. From here it is about 1.2 km on foot to the ruins – a worthwhile introduction to this hidden area.

🎨 Backdrop for Film and Photography

The surreal atmosphere of the dilapidated town has already attracted numerous directors. Monterano has been the location for films such as Ben Hur and Il Marchese del Grillo. The place also offers a wealth of motifs for photographers and video artists: from drone flyovers over ruins to quiet watercourses in the morning mist.

🔹 Conclusion: A Place for Explorers

The Riserva Naturale Regionale Monterano is not a classic tourist destination. However, those who make the journey will be rewarded with an impressive mixture of nature, history and photogeny. Whether you are a quiet hiker, a curious explorer or an ambitious drone pilot – this forgotten place will leave a lasting impression.

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