Pico, the stone village of Celtic origin

Located in the heart of Ciociaria and among “The Most Beautiful Villages of Italy”, Pico probably owes its name to the Celtic root pic, meaning “sharp point,” in reference to the spur on which the Castle stands. The first traces of the village date back to 589 AD, while in 1049 the castle was officially mentioned as Castrum qui nominatur Pika, commissioned by Giovanni Scinto. Over the centuries, Pico passed under various families and lords, including Ottavio Farnese, and obtained the title of Royal City in 1802. During World War II, the village was partially destroyed in the Battle of Montecassino. Today Pico enchants with its millenary history, medieval walls, and the charm of its evocative landscape, offering a unique experience between memory and beauty.

What to see in Pico

Just past the entrance to the village, one can begin a pleasant walk on foot, passing the Garden and the small church of San Rocco, to enter the medieval village through Porta San Rocco. In the historic center, among typical medieval stairways, stand the Castle with its garden and the Church of Santa Marina, dating back to the year 1000. Walking along Via Landolfi, one encounters the Church of Sant’Antonino, Casa Landolfi and its garden. Particularly evocative are also the surrounding rural and mountain areas, with the Church of Santa Maria del Campo and Largo San Francesco, near Piazza Ferrucci, the heart of commercial life. Not to be missed is the Tommaso Landolfi Literary Park®, the first in Ciociaria and the second in Lazio, offering routes through alleys and mountain areas that inspired the writer. An itinerary that combines history, nature, and literary suggestions, immersing visitors in Landolfi’s most cherished places.

Events and traditions in the village

Pico boasts a rich calendar of religious and folkloric traditions. Among the main events are the celebrations in honor of Saint Blaise (February 3) with the fair and the blessing of the throat, the Canto delle Palme, the Good Friday Procession, the Marian celebrations in May with a final torchlight procession, and the Corpus Domini flower festival. In summer, the food and wine itinerary (July 16), the Feast of Santa Marina (July 17), and the Mountain Festival (August 10) are held, followed by the processions in honor of the Assumption of Mary (August 15) and Saint Rocco (August 16). On September 2, the patronal feast of Saint Antonino Martyr is celebrated. Among the most recent events stands out the Rally of Pico, a nationally renowned eco-friendly motor race. In winter, the parish choir offers the Christmas concert and the village hosts a life-size nativity scene.

What to see around Pico

In the surroundings of Pico, one can discover places of great historical and natural charm. Just a few kilometers away is the Abbey of Montecassino, a symbol of art and history, and the Liri Valley with its river landscapes and historic towns such as Cassino. Nature lovers can explore the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park or the numerous waterfalls and mountain trails for excursions and picnics. In nearby villages such as Aquino, Atina, Isola del Liri, and Arpino, one can admire medieval castles, ancient churches, and picturesque squares, fully experiencing the atmosphere of Ciociaria.

Cover photo credits: Giambattista Lazazzera / Shutterstock.com