Hidden gems of Italy: 5 unique attractions to discover

Sammezzano Castle - Ph. Thomas Junior/flickr

Italy is a land rich in history, art and breathtaking landscapes. Amidst this wonderful variety, there are some unique and fascinating locations that deserve to be discovered. This article will introduce you to 5 hidden treasures you absolutely must visit.

The Castle of Sammezzano - Florence

Located near Leccio in the municipality of Reggello in the province of Florence, Sammezzano Castle is an amazing structure built in the 1800s by Marquis Ferdinando Panciatichi Ximenes of Aragon. Its eclectic architecture and lavish decorations make it one of the most original buildings in Italy.

Inside the castle, the many rooms will transport you on a virtual journey of discovery throughout the Orient, from China and Arabia to Spain. Each one will tell a story of a world waiting to be discovered.
The surrounding park of about 65 hectares has an invaluable botanical heritage formed not only by the tree species.

Ph. Marco Saccardi/flickr

Rocchetta Mattei - Bologna

A marvelous Rocca built on the ruins of an ancient building dating back to the 13th century, in the province of Bologna, on behalf of Count Cesare Mattei, who devoted himself to the study for medicine, after the death of his mother, and in particular to Electromeopathy, a therapeutic practice of his own invention. Mattei wanted to create a place where he could receive his patients and where he could experiment with his treatments, so Rocchetta Mattei was born.

Its structure, remodeled several times by the count during his lifetime and by his heirs, made it a labyrinth of towers, monumental staircases, reception rooms and private rooms that recall different styles: neo-medieval, neo-Renaissance, Moorish and Art Nouveau.

Ph. Tullio Dainese/flickr

The Scarzuola - Terni

The Scarzuola is an architectural complex located near Montegabbione, in the province of Terni. It was founded in 1218 by St. Francis of Assisi and later transformed by architect Tomaso Buzzi, who wanted to create a "Theater of Life" and an "Ideal City."

The site offers a surprising mix of spirituality and surreality, with buildings such as the Temple of Apollo, the Water Theater and the Labyrinth of the Gods. A visit to the Scarzuola is a dreamlike experience that tests the perception of the boundaries between reality and fantasy.

Ph. Tonino Grande/flickr

The Hermitage of San Colombano - Trento

The Hermitage of St. Columba is located in Trambileno, in the province of Trento, and is embedded in rock 120 meters above sea level. Protected by a natural rock roof, according to legend, it was built by the hermit St. Columbanus who, as a knight defeated the dragon that caused the death of baptized children in the waters below.

To reach the Hermitage, it is necessary to walk a path and staircase of 102 steps carved into the rock, admiring the breathtaking view of the valley below. The hermitage's rooms are embellished with frescoes from various periods, from the early 15th century to the early 20th century.

Ph. Davide Seddio/flickr

The Vegetable Cathedral - Bergamo

The Vegetal Cathedral is a contemporary conceived and designed to artist Giuliano Mauri in 2008-2009. Located on the territory of Oltre il Colle, in the province of Bergamo, the work symbolizes the bond between man and nature.

Built according to the ancient art of weaving using flexible wood, pegs, nails and ropes, the Cathedral is composed of natural and plant elements. A structure consisting of five aisles and 42 columns, within each of which a young beech tree has been planted. Over time, the growth of the plants will create a true natural cathedral, thus providing a place for meditation and contemplation of the harmony between man and the environment.

Ph. Alessandro Dentella/flickr

Italy is a land of hidden treasures and unexpected surprises just waiting to be discovered. The five attractions presented in this article are just some of the countless examples of how art, history, spirituality and nature can merge into a unique and unforgettable experience. We invite you to explore these fascinating places and be inspired by their charm and mystery as you immerse yourself in the richness of Italy's cultural heritage. Enjoy your trip!