Incantato Insider: Gaeta and Sperlunga

The region of Lazio today features a varied landscape of volcanic lakes, mountains, ravines, and olive groves. The area was inhabited at least 60,000 years go, although the first signs of a significant civilization date back to the 10th century BC. Aside from Rome, the YPAS travelers will also be visiting other towns in the Lazio region, including two in the south: Sperlunga and Gaeta.

A seaside town surrounded by sandy beaches, the old town of Sperlunga is marked by whitewashed buildings and narrow alleyways. The modern part of town lies down on the seafront. 
In ancient times, this area was a favorite retreat for the Romans during the hot summer months, which is why there were villas built along the coast. Archaeologists found a luxury villa complex on the outskirts of town, along with some amazing 2nd century BC Hellenistic sculptures in a large cave open to the sea.

The historic center of Gaeta is dominated by a mighty Aragonese castle. However, the town's most outstanding feature is the Duomo's elegant late Romanesque bell tower with its lofty summit topped by a roof of colored ceramic tiles.