Discover Pavona

When choosing where to stay, Pavona’s local history can be as practical a consideration as getting there. Its historical connections range from an ancient lake and a Latin city to medieval settlements; the farmers’ market and train station add other points of interest. This lets you weigh cultural interests and travel planning separately.

Ancient and Medieval Local History

Pavona’s ancient origins are linked to Lacus Turni, known today as the “laghetto.” The lake is also known as Lacus Iuturnae. In the Pavona area, Lacus Turni was partially drained in 1611 by Pope Paul V. The drainage therefore belongs to a later historical period than the ancient origins.

Another ancient connection is nearby Monte Savello. In archaic times, the Latin city of Apiolae stood there. At the end of the 7th century BC, Rome’s king Tarquinius Priscus destroyed the city. The lake associated with Pavona’s origins and the city on Monte Savello thus represent two distinct historical points of reference.

In the Early Middle Ages, Domusculta Sulpiciana was established on the site where Apiolae had stood. Around the 13th century, the Domusculta became a fief of the Savelli family. They built their fortress there, later known in Rome as “Corte Savella.” Another important Domusculta in the Pavona area was S. Eufemia, later called S. Fumia.

The chronology is useful for understanding the history: Apiolae belongs to the archaic period, Sulpiciana to the Early Middle Ages, and the Savelli fortress to around the 13th century. The connection between Apiolae and Sulpiciana is particularly concrete, since the Domusculta was established on the city’s former site.

Villa Contarini in Pavona adds the story of an individual building to the local history. It was originally a monastery and later became the property of the municipality of Albano Laziale. Unlike the accounts of Apiolae and the Domuscultae, the focus here is on its former use and later ownership. This offers another distinct way to explore the area’s history.

Market and Getting There

A contemporary point of interest is the Mercato Contadino dei Castelli Romani “ColtiVendo” farmers’ market in Pavona. It frequently holds food education workshops. If you would like to include a workshop in your travel plans, check in advance which dates are scheduled during your trip. For travelers interested in food-related topics, the market offers a different perspective from the area’s history.

Pavona railway station has two tracks for passenger services. For your specific journey, please check the timetable for your travel date, as train services can change.

Discover more destinations: Marina Di Cerveteri, Roccagiovine, Labico, Falcognana, Castelverde, Ciampino, Valmontone, Castagnola.

For the broader travel overview: Rome.