Calcata

 

Calcata is one of my favorite places around Rome: not only is it set in a scenic environment, standing over a cliff made of volcanic rock surrounded by green forests, but it houses an alternative lifesty community of artists that took possession of the village. Not long ago in fact, this place was almost abandoned, because of stability issues and risk of collapses. Starting from 1960, some artists began to first squat and then began to buy and restore the properties in the historical center, bringing it to its actual glory.
There is nothing in particular that I can suggest to visit in Calcata, it’s more about the experience: getting lost in its winding streets and alleys and entering in every single atelier. Nowadays the village is quite popular, the more strict would define it “commercial” so, if you want to experience the real spirit of Calcata, you better don’t go there during holidays when it’s packed with people.