Lazio is the undisputed historical and political capital of Italy. Dominated by Rome, the eternal city, the entire region feels layered with empires. Roads here lead you to the unparalleled grandeur of Rome and the unspoiled Etruscan hills and coastal parks that surround it. This region is essential for understanding Europe as these historic empires build an important part of that foundation. While traffic jams are part of the Rome experience, the true journey begins outside the city. You can drive the ancient Consular Roads, like the Appian Way, which once connected the entire Roman empire. The beautiful Castelli Romani are a cluster of scenic hill towns built on the Alban Hills provide fresh air and views over the capital. Further north, you discover the mysterious but well preserved tombs and settlements of the Etruscan civilization. This region is like a driving through the textbooks of Western history. Lazio's cuisine is foundational to Italian cooking. Look for dishes based on sheep's milk cheese (Pecorino Romano), locally grown vegetables and excellent white wines from the Alban Hills. This region delivers authentic history on every corner covering 2000 years of life. It will take you to the true epicenter of European history.

Lazio highlights

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Follow the routes that cross this destination

The Scenic Route

The Heritage Drive

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History of Lazio

The powerful Etruscan civilization controlled the northern areas, leaving behind well preserved tombs and settlements. The region’s destiny was sealed by the rise of Rome, founded on the banks of the Tiber River. From here, the city grew from a Republic into a world spanning Empire. The Consular Roads, like the Appian Way , were engineered out of Lazio to govern, transport goods, and expand Imperial power across Europe and beyond. Though the Western Roman Empire collapsed, the city of Rome retained its status as a critical political and spiritual capital. The Papacy became the dominant temporal power, and the Vatican controlled the surrounding region for over a thousand years. This Papal State era saw the building of magnificent Baroque churches and palaces. For centuries, Rome and Lazio dictated the religious and cultural life of Western civilization. In 1870, Rome became the capital of a unified Italy, securing Lazio’s role as the nation’s political center. The density of this historical legacy is staggering. You can walk through forums built by emperors, see the walls built by popes and explore the ancient settlements of the Etruscans. This is not just a road trip is anymore but your personal journey into the historical backbone of Western civilization.

Lazio

Lazio highlights

Part of these road trips

History of Lazio

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