Overview
Rocca di Botte stands in a place protected by mountains, marking the boundary line between the Cavaliere plain and the upper Aniene Valley.
The old fortress, built between the 11th and 12th centuries, is located on the highest part of the mountain that dominates the contemporary center and has a defensive shape typical of a castle-fence. According to some documents from the 11th century, its name derives from the shape of the barrel vault of the water reservoir located halfway up the hillside on Mount San Fabrizio.
It's so enchanting to stroll through the exuberant nature that surrounds the village, that makes it an ideal venue for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation.
History, nature ... could art be missing to close the magical circle? Of course not. In particular, Rocca di Botte transmits its artistic qualities through its religious testimonies.
The Church of St. Mary of the Fever, guarded in the heart of the charming village, holds valuable frescoes dating back to the 15th century. Its name seems to be linked to the plague epidemics, which were contemporary with its founding, and it was in fact also used as a hospital.
The Church of St. Peter the Apostle preserves two 12th-century marble works, which are the pulpit and tabernacle. It has two organs: the old one that was already present in 1636 and the new one which can be attributed to the artist from Affile, Cesare Catarinozzi. A long phase of restoration in the early years of the 21st century restored them to their original splendor.
Concluding the village's artistic-religious triptych is the Church of St. Peter the Hermit, probably dating back to 1215, which is the year of the canonization of St. Peter the Hermit, patron saint of the municipality. Contiguous to the saint's birthplace, it was rebuilt in 1777. It is located in the oldest part of the medieval village.
You could have so many ideal moments to visit Rocca di Botte, but we have to suggest a specific time to enjoy a very special local tradition: between the end of August and the first Sunday of September. Every year, the rite of the "Comparanza" or "Comparatico in San Pietro" is held, with the celebration of the Panarda rite with the offering of the blessed bread of St. Peter, which is baked in the original oven of the hermit saint's birthplace. On this occasion you might also take advantage and be tempted by the culinary delicacies of the village, such as sweet ricotta ravioli with tomato sauce or frescarelli with beans.