Lying on the north-eastern shores of Lake Turano, the village of Castel di Tora is immersed in a very suggestive environment. The small village is located in the province of Rieti, in Lazio, and is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. The environment is characterized not only by the presence of thick woods but also by the proximity to the waters of the lake and Mount Navegna from which on clear days you can see the dome of San Pietro.
Its territory falls almost completely within the Monte Navegna and Monte Cervia Nature Reserve, where there are many paths for excursions or simple walks.
The area of Castel di Tora has seen the presence of man since prehistoric times, with evidence found inside some cavities such as those of the Jannara Cave. Later, it was frequented by Sabine-Roman populations, even if the real development took place during the medieval period, when the town had more than a thousand inhabitants compared to the current 300. In Castel di Tora a very interesting place is the Church of San Giovanni Evangelista, inside which there are six altars and the Triton Fountain, located in the main square of the town.
Other architectures to visit, dated between the XV and XVI century, are the Palazzo del Drago and the whole village of Antuni.
For lovers of landscapes and photographers, however, there are many ‘privileged’ places not to be missed to enjoy the splendid view. The best viewpoints of Castel di Tora and its surroundings are: Monte Antuni, Monte Navegna, Monte Cervia, Mirandella, Ascrea, Paganico Sabino, Punta di Colle di Tora and the panoramic road Collacchiani – Poggio Moiano.
A characteristic feature of the ancient village are the narrow streets dotted with arches, connected by stairways and passages, along which we can observe ancient caves and cellars dug into the rock.
