The Borgo di Canterano is a charming hamlet that bears witness to one of the typical medieval settlement patterns of Lazio. With a population of 345 and an area of 7.37 km², it is located 602 meters above sea level, set on a rocky ridge of the Ruffi Mountains, about 60 kilometers from Rome.The territory of Canterano shows traces of settlements dating back to Roman, pre-Roman and prehistoric times, highlighting a continuity of settlement over the centuries. This long history has resulted in a stratification that has evolved to form the village we can admire today. For many centuries, Canterano has had an agricultural economy and preserves traces of ancient terraces, some of which are still used to cultivate olive trees and overcome considerable gradients, while also managing hydrogeological risk. The area is characterized by dense forests and cliffs that contribute to the morphological aspect of the landscape. In addition, there are numerous water springs, which can be seen along trails beaten over the centuries.One of Canterano’s attractions is the archaeological area of the Mura Poligonali, located in Le Rosce Locality, which testifies to one of the oldest construction techniques, with large stone blocks put in place without the use of binders. These walls had various functions, such as bases for Roman-era production villas or outposts for defense and control along important communication routes or passes.Canterano is renowned for its bread and prized black and scorzone truffles. In addition, the area is home to the precious hypogeum mushroom, collected in the forests of the Aniene Valley. The Murritana, a nonprofit cultural association, was founded in 2016 to promote solidarity and civic initiatives to support the community. The Truffle Festival is their main event, which has been held annually for nine editions and has charitable purposes, such as supporting childhood brain tumor research and useful works for the country.Canterano offers typical local cuisine, with dishes such as tonnarelli with truffle, cavolacci with steamed potato and yellow pizza, potato gnocchi with sheep gravy, Canterano bread, fregnacce (typical pasta) with tomato sauce, and ricotta ravioli.The town also celebrates the Truffle Festivals, which take place over two weekends in October.Monuments and places of environmental and natural interest in Canterano include the polygonal walls, which testify to the presence of the Equi of the Romans, the Acqua Viva waterfall, and the Rosce rock walls.
