Tucked into the hills of the Castelli Romani, the Greek Monastery of Santa Maria di Grottaferrata is a place of rare calm and continuity. Founded in 1004, it is one of the last surviving Byzantine-rite monasteries in Italy, where ancient traditions are still very much alive. Inside, you’ll find a striking blend of Eastern and Western Christian art—golden mosaics, icons, and frescoes that feel worlds away from the bustle of Rome. We were lucky the day we visited to witness a lovely wedding complete with a vintage Alfa Romeo Giulietta wrapped in a big white bow! The grounds are lovely for a quiet walk and to enjoy the ancient beauty.
Greek Monastery of Santa Maria di Grottaferrata
City: Grottaferrata
Region: Lazio
About the Region:
Lazio is often seen only as the region that holds Rome, but it offers so much more beyond the Eternal City. Of course, Rome itself is reason enough to visit. Walking its streets is like wandering through a living museum, where ancient ruins, Renaissance palaces, Baroque fountains, and bustling piazzas blend seamlessly with modern life. The Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain are icons everyone should see at least once.
But beyond Rome, Lazio’s countryside is filled with surprises. Just an hour away lies Tivoli, home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Villa d’Este with its stunning Renaissance gardens and fountains, and Hadrian’s Villa, the sprawling ancient retreat of Emperor Hadrian. Both are breathtakingly beautiful and often overlooked by travelers.
Further north, you’ll find the medieval hill town of Viterbo, known for its well-preserved historic center and ancient thermal baths. Nearby, Civita di Bagnoregio sits atop a crumbling cliff, accessible only by footbridge, earning it the name “the dying town” – a hauntingly beautiful place frozen in time.
Lazio also boasts volcanic lakes like Lake Bolsena and Lake Bracciano, perfect for a relaxing day of swimming, boating, or dining lakeside at family-run trattorias. The region’s food reflects rustic Roman flavors: hearty pastas like cacio e pepe and amatriciana, and porchetta roasted to perfection.
Visiting Lazio means experiencing the grandeur of Rome and discovering a countryside rich with history, quiet beauty, and authentic Italian life that few tourists ever see.