Gaeta, Italy: The Ultimate Travel Destination. Nicola Jr. Tarallo

      GAETA: THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL DESTINATION

      Gaeta (population 23,000) is a port city located between Rome and Naples. It is part of Lazio, a west central region of Italy, and is near the southern bordering region of Campania. Gaeta is set on a peak of high land that juts out over the expanse of the sea, referred to as a promontory, only being tied to the mainland by the narrow isthmus of Montesecco.

      Because of its location, Gaeta has an exceptionally mild climate which is very favorable. The voluminous Aurunci Mountains protect it from cold northern winds, while the breeze from the sea reduces the summer heat.

      Consequently, the average winter temperature is 10° C (50° F), while the average summer temperature is 24° C (75.2° F). The annual average is 16° C (60.8° F).

      Conveniently located only 90 miles (NW) from Rome and 59 miles (SE) from Naples, Gaeta can easily be reached by train or by car.

      Gaeta is a tranquil, easygoing haven--the ideal destination for vacationers and business travelers alike to get away from the bustle and noise of the big cities.

      Most of the hotels, attractions, and primary shopping and dining districts are clustered near one another--many within easy walking distance to all that Gaeta has to offer.

      Gaeta offers a vast assortment of outdoor recreation and activities. Tourists have the opportunity to partake in beach volleyball on an unforgettable golden sandy beach with crystal-clear aquamarine water, mountain biking, rock climbing, scuba diving, deep sea fishing, or simply exploring the breathtaking views, natural beauty, medieval churches, and historical testaments of the times. The promontory of Monte Orlando (561 feet) has incredible views of the beach and bay, a picturesque outdoor Regional Park which boasts a fitness trail, the Mausoleum of Lucius Munatius Plancus (22 BCE), and the famous “Split Mountain” (Montagna Spaccata), where one can visit the Sanctuary of the Holy Trinity and the Grotto of the Turk.

      The Isthmus of Montesecco ties the two historic districts which make up Gaeta—Gaeta S. Erasmo and Gaeta Porto Salvo (Il Borgo). These districts are distinguished by characteristics related to their origin.

      The district of Gaeta S. Erasmo is an old fortress—the entire area was once enclosed by a wall and protected by the Angevin -Aragonese castle, which domineers over the promontory and can be seen from the neighboring district of Gaeta Porto Salvo. Gaeta S. Erasmo contains many traces of its ancient history, with much of the area remaining unchanged in its appearance. This district is surrounded by the blue sea and the green of the Park of Monte Orlando. Here you can visit museums, the Duomo (a medieval cathedral) and its bell tower. Also one can walk through the quaint medieval quarter with a maze of narrow alleys, steps, and twisting stone-lined pathways. Concerts and cultural events are often hosted in the historical buildings, squares and churches.

      The district of Porto Salvo was founded outside the city walls as a small village of farmers and fishermen. Gaeta Porto Salvo has expanded in the last half century on the isthmus and on the low hills surrounding the bay. The heart of this district still remains at the Via della Indipendenza, a narrow alley lined with a cluster of unmistakeably old houses. This quaint street is the main shopping area of the city and is coloured by diverse shops and farmer stands with local produce.