Attractions and Places To See around Cori - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Cori. Cori is a historic hill town located on the slopes of the Lepini Mountains in Italy's Lazio region. The area offers a rich array of attractions, spanning ancient history, medieval architecture, and cultural sites. Visitors can explore historical landmarks and natural features within a landscape characterized by olive groves and vineyards.
Best attractions and places to see around Cori
- The most popular attractions is Lake Giulianello, a lake that is a natural monument. This volcanic lake is known for its scenic beauty and biodiversity, located between the municipalities of Velletri and Cori.
- Another must-see spot is Artemisio Forest Refuge, a hut immersed in the park of the Roman castles. This refuge is managed by the temporary association "Natura Matura" and serves as a point of interest within the forest.
- Visitors also love Acqua Donzella Spring, a natural monument and historical site. This spring is situated in a natural valley and is associated with an ancient aqueduct.
- Cori is known for its ancient Roman temples, impressive polygonal walls, and significant cultural sites. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from historical landmarks to natural features.
- The attractions around Cori are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 110 upvotes and over 75 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Lake Giulianello
Highlight • Lake
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Acqua Donzella Spring
Highlight • Natural Monument
La fonte, invece, risale a migliaia e migliaia di anni fa, come tante altre fonti situate sul versante sud delle pendici del vecchio cratere, trasformatosi in seguito in Lago del Vivaro.
Il significato di Acqua Donzella è "fanciulla che offre o prende acqua".
Si narra infatti che nel periodo preromanico molti abitanti del luogo, per cause politiche e di carestia, si rifugiassero sul Monte Algido (Mons Algidus) in cerca di acqua e selvaggina.
Alcuni di loro, stanchi ed affamati, si sdraiarono nei pressi della grotta che sorgeva proprio sul luogo ove adesso si trova il casotto idrico. All'improvviso davanti ai loro occhi si materializzò una fanciulla vestita di bianco che indicò loro la grotta, per poi scomparire subito dopo.
Si alzarono, entrarono nella grotta e vi trovarono una ricchissima sorgente d'acqua alla quale poterono finalmente dissetarsi. Per questo motivo il luogo venne chiamato "Fonte Acqua Donzella".
La fonte stessa si trova sopra una antica necropoli dove sono state scoperte circa duecento tombe: la Madonna durante una delle successive apparizioni, alla domanda perché fosse apparsa proprio a Velletri ed in quel luogo preciso, rispose: "Perché qui ci sono tanti morti che hanno bisogno di preghiere ...".
Dai reperti archeologici rinvenuti (punte di lance ed attrezzi in pietra vulcanica, silicio) abbiamo la prova che ci fossero insediamenti di uomini primitivi. Successivamente vi si stabilirono i Volsci che erano pastori, contadini e artigiani: queste popolazioni infatti si insediavano sempre presso corsi d'acqua e sorgenti. Furono altresì rinvenuti reperti di origine etrusca nonché oggetti risalenti al medioevo. Questo lembo di terra fu inoltre testimone di cruente persecuzioni di cristiani che venivano a rifugiarsi, di giorno, tra i boschi e di sera scendevano per pregare presso il luogo dove ora sorge, a Velletri, la Chiesa di San Salvatore. I cimiteri e le necropoli furono localizzati anche a monte della fonte donzella, nei pressi dei ruderi del castello di Ariano.
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Vivaro Astronomical Observatory
Highlight • Monument
Scientific information events called AstroIncontri are held every Friday evening, promoted by the Tuscolana Astronomy Association "Livio Gratton" (ATA).
lnx.ataonweb.it/wp
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Artemisio Forest Refuge
Highlight • Mountain Hut
The temporary purpose association Natura Matura is made up of various associations present and operating in the Castelli Romani area.
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Funerary Monument "Le Grotticelle"
Highlight • Monument
Among the various hypothesized dates, the most reliable would seem to be the one that places its construction in the Eneolithic period, between the Copper and Bronze Ages: these tombs essentially date back to around 2,500 BC.
The Grotticelle Tombs represent a unicum in the Castelli Romani territory, as well as a real enigma from an archaeological point of view.
nemora.it/tombe-grotticelle-di-rocca-di-papa
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Tips from the Community
Starting from Lariano it is a long walk. The only advice is to do it in company because you will meet flocks of sheep, sometimes, without shepherds.
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Beautiful lake surrounded by nature with beautiful cycling paths. Ideal to be used as a school camp and as a nature trail.
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"It is an oasis that includes the waters of a small lake and the surrounding areas, between the provinces of Rome and Latina. The natural monument was established with Presidential Decree 21 June 2007, no. 425 (B.U.R. of 30 July 2007, no. 21). Located halfway between the volcanic heights of the Alban Hills and the limestone ones of the Lepini Mountains, at an altitude of 265 meters above sea level, for its naturalistic values, Lake Giulianello was identified as a natural monument by the Lazio Region in 2008. Of volcanic origin like the nearby lakes of the Alban Hills, Lake Giulianello is sub-elliptical in shape and measures about a kilometer and a half in perimeter. The depth of the seabed is just over 10 meters and its waters are fed mainly by underground springs."
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Nice little refuge where you can possibly stop for a picnic or bivouac but no water available.
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A lake of serenity, an uncontaminated place immersed in the countryside of Giulianello, a hamlet of Cori. Not very large, you can see the fish surfacing, well-kept olive trees on one bank, other imposing shrubs on the other banks, the weeds are kept under control certainly by those who take care of the park. Quiet place, apart from a Belgian shepherd puppy that kept barking at me, breaking the silence. Two elderly people who had bathed in the lake said it was drinkable, it is clear that they love this lake, I would not have drunk it anyway. To reach the lake I traveled dirt roads and paths for 97% starting from Nemi. From here you cross paths of the Francigena, the journey could have continued. It was worth it. Beautiful
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Stunning natural lake with beautiful white roads around.
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Panorama of Giulianello lake
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Lake Giulianello, also called "Lago La Torre" is the third volcanic lake in the Colli Albani, after Lake Albano and Lake Nemi. In 2007, by decree of the President of the Lazio Region, it was erected as a natural monument. It is an oval-shaped volcanic lake with a perimeter of 1.8 km, and is located between the municipalities of Velletri and Cori, in an exclave administered by the municipality of Artena. Orographically, it can be identified in the plain between the Colli Albani and the Lepini mountains. Site of pleasant scenic beauty, it hosts a remarkable biodiversity of fauna (fish and birdlife) and flora (reed thickets and secular oaks along the shore).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Cori?
Cori is rich in ancient history. You can visit the impressive Temple of Hercules, a Roman temple from the 1st century BCE offering expansive views of the Pontine Plain. Don't miss the ancient Polygonal Walls, dating from the 6th to 4th centuries BCE, which stretch for about 2 kilometers and feature three city gates. The remains of the Temple of the Dioscuri and the ancient Roman Ponte della Catena are also significant historical landmarks.
Are there any natural attractions or scenic viewpoints around Cori?
Yes, Cori offers several natural highlights and beautiful views. The most popular natural attraction is Lake Giulianello, a volcanic lake known for its scenic beauty and biodiversity. You can also enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Pontine Plain from elevated points like the Temple of Hercules or the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Carmine. The town is nestled on the slopes of the Lepini Mountains, providing a picturesque backdrop of olive groves and vineyards.
What cultural sites should I visit in Cori?
Cori has several notable cultural sites. The Complesso di Sant'Oliva includes a 12th-century church built on Roman ruins, a frescoed chapel, and a convent that now houses the Museo della Città e del Territorio. Another highlight is the Oratorio della Santissima Annunziata, a national monument celebrated for its extensive medieval frescoes depicting stories from the Old and New Testaments.
What outdoor activities can I do near Cori?
The area around Cori is excellent for outdoor activities. You can explore various trails for hiking, running, and mountain biking. For example, there are routes like the 'Lake Giulianello loop' for hiking or the 'Necropolis Fountain – Acqua Donzella Spring loop' for mountain biking. You can find more details on these activities and routes in the dedicated guides for Hiking around Cori, Running Trails around Cori, and MTB Trails around Cori.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Cori area?
Absolutely! Families can enjoy several attractions. Lake Giulianello is a great spot for a relaxing day out, and the Artemisio Forest Refuge offers a pleasant experience immersed in nature within the Roman castles park. The Vivaro Astronomical Observatory also hosts scientific information events, which can be engaging for all ages.
Where can I find unique local experiences in Cori?
Cori is famous for its skilled Sbandieratori (flag-wavers), and the town hosts the 'Carosello Storico dei Rioni di Cori,' a historical reenactment with Renaissance costumes and flag-waving competitions. Additionally, the region is known for its wine production, so visiting local wineries and tasting the Cori DOC wines offers a unique local experience.
What is the significance of Acqua Donzella Spring?
The Acqua Donzella Spring is a natural monument and historical site located in a natural valley. It's associated with an ancient aqueduct and holds local legends, including tales of a maiden appearing to guide weary travelers to its waters. Archaeological findings suggest ancient human settlements and even a necropolis nearby, adding to its historical depth.
What is the Artemisio Forest Refuge?
The Artemisio Forest Refuge is a hut immersed in the park of the Roman castles. It's managed by the temporary association "Natura Matura" and serves as a point of interest for visitors exploring the forest, offering a place to rest and connect with nature.
Can I visit an astronomical observatory near Cori?
Yes, the Vivaro Astronomical Observatory, also known as the “Livio Gratton” astronomical park, is located in the Vivaro hamlet of Rocca di Papa. It's an excellent location for astronomical observation and hosts scientific information events called AstroIncontri, typically on Friday evenings.
What are the Funerary Monuments "Le Grotticelle"?
The Funerary Monument "Le Grotticelle" refers to ancient burials discovered in the Rocca di Papa woods. These tombs are believed to date back to the Eneolithic period (around 2,500 BC) and represent a unique archaeological enigma in the Castelli Romani territory.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Cori?
Visitors appreciate the blend of ancient history and natural beauty. Many enjoy the serene atmosphere of Lake Giulianello and the historical significance of sites like the Temple of Hercules. The opportunity to explore diverse landscapes, from volcanic lakes to ancient walls and forested refuges, is also highly valued by the komoot community.
Are there any churches of historical or artistic interest in Cori?
Beyond the Complesso di Sant'Oliva, you can visit the Church of Santa Maria della Pietà, built on the site of a temple dedicated to the goddess Fortuna, featuring a Renaissance façade. The Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Cori Monte is also notable for its soaring bell tower.
Most popular attractions around Cori
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