Rocca Massima, perched on the north-westernmost slopes of the Lepini Mountains, rises 730 metres above the Pontine Plain, making it the highest village in the mountain range. Its origins remain a matter of debate: some scholars trace it back to the pre-Roman era, identifying it with the Arx Carvetana mentioned by Livy; others suggest it was established between the 5th and 8th centuries AD as a fortified refuge against barbarian invasions. The earliest historical records date to the Middle Ages, when in 1202 the Annibaldi family took possession of the territory and erected a fortified palace atop Monte Massimo.
Over the centuries, the building was repeatedly remodelled, yet it remains harmoniously integrated into the village’s layout today. The fief subsequently passed through the hands of the Conti, Salviati, Borghese, and Doria Pamphilj families, until it became part of the newly established province of Littoria in 1932. Today, Rocca Massima captivates visitors with its winding streets, charming squares, and ancient churches, offering an immersive journey through history.
Gallery
