팔바테라 최고의 MTB 라이딩 경로

Well preserved stretch of the Appian Way. Technical stretch because the pavement is not exactly smooth. In some places it is better to push the bike, but the surrounding landscape is really worth it

Of high historical importance, not to be missed even if some small sections require pushing the bike

Hard climb on concrete and asphalt

Cippo No. 56, one of the 700 places in the 19th century along the border between the ancient Papal State and the Kingdom of Naples.

In Roman times the town planning of Fondi was developed according to the scheme of the military camp, still clearly recognizable in the historic center. It was quadrangular in shape, originating from the intersection of two main streets: the Decumano Massimo (Corso Appio Claudio) and the Cardine Massimo and completely surrounded by perimeter walls (still visible). Along each side, in correspondence with the main streets, there were 4 entrance doors. Of this, the only one to have kept its original structure intact is the "Portella", located to the east of the city center, at the Cardine Massimo. This was preceded by two square towers and, between one and the other tower, there is an arch supported by piers on which the rails intended for the sliding of the portcullis are still visible.

Its foundation dates back to 1072, when the consul of Fondi Litfredo donated the territory to the Benedictine Monastery of Montecassino. The building had, from the fourteenth century, a purely defensive and sighting purpose, as can be deduced not only from the strategic position of the place, raised and from which you can enjoy an excellent view of the plain of Fondi and the adjacent mountains, but also from the structure: The plan, typically medieval, is square and with circular towers placed at the vertices of the sides and has numerous loopholes along the entire perimeter and is spread over 4 levels: ground floor, first floor, second floor and attic. Over time, the castle underwent numerous changes, not least that of the eighteenth century, which with the addition of a rectangular body with a gabled roof, gave the building its current appearance. The interior has maintained its initial appearance almost unchanged over time, with the addition between 1400 and 1500 of vaulted roofs with nails (sails) in correspondence with the openings. This intervention was carried out by the Caetani family, who in that period developed an aesthetic sense found in many other buildings in the city. Legend has it that the countess Giulia Gonzaga and a lover often met inside the fortress: it is said that she accidentally discovered a secret passage that led from the Baronial Castle to Monte Vago, from which she descended to reach the place.

A nice path to do by bike or on foot between Fondi and Itri. The street is well preserved. The route is set up with didactic panels that describe the place, the events, the road techniques and the tampering over the centuries, which have been concentrated in this small stretch of road. On the Fondi side there is an area equipped with tables and benches for a pleasant stop.