Ariccia, Rome, Lazio, Italy – On Sunday, February 8, 2026, the community of Ariccia came together to celebrate the Feast Day of Santa Apollonia, an event rich in religious, cultural, and convivial appointments that united faith, tradition, and the enhancement of the territory. The day saw significant participation from residents and visitors, underscoring the deep connection between the community and its patron saint.
Guided Excursions and Educational Visits Highlight the Day
On the occasion of the Feast Day of Santa Apollonia, patron saint of Ariccia, the Parish of Santa Maria Assunta in Cielo, led by Don Antonio Salimbeni – who is also the Director of the Diocesan Office for Sports, Leisure, Tourism, and Pilgrimages – promoted guided excursions and educational visits in collaboration with the Municipality of Ariccia. These activities, held on Sunday, February 8, 2026, were curated by archaeologist and AIGAE guide M.C. Vincenti, under the theme “ON THE PATHS OF THE SACRED, ART AND SPIRITUALITY FROM THE ACROPOLIS OF ARICCIA TO THE VIA APPIA UNESCO.”
The events that unfolded throughout the day were met with great success. Participants visited the Collegiate Church of S. Maria Assunta, the Locanda Martorelli, the Appia Antica, and the Catacombs of San Senatore in Albano. At the conclusion of each guided excursion, a farewell toast (featuring wine from the Marconi di Ariccia winery) was held in the ancient kitchens of Palazzo Chigi, organized by the Knights of Santa Apollonia. Guiding the participants, who arrived from across the Province of Rome, from the coast, and from Rome itself, were Alberto Silvestri, Maria Cristina Vincenti, and Roberto Libera, all well-known figures in the culture of the Castelli Romani.
Community Engagement and Appreciation for Local Heritage
“The great participation and enthusiasm recorded during this day dedicated to Santa Apollonia are a source of deep satisfaction. The initiative ‘On the Paths of the Sacred, Art and Spirituality from the Acropolis of Ariccia to the Via Appia UNESCO’ demonstrated how strong the desire is to know and experience our territory consciously, uniting faith, history, archaeology, and landscape,” commented Councilor Irene Falcone.
Councilor Falcone further extended her gratitude, stating, “I thank the Parish of Santa Maria Assunta in Cielo, Don Antonio Salimbeni, all the speakers and guides, the Knights of Santa Apollonia, and all those who collaborated with passion for the success of the event. Ariccia was able to welcome visitors from all over the Province and from Rome, offering a path of great cultural and spiritual value.”
The successful celebration highlights the community’s commitment to preserving and promoting its rich historical and cultural heritage, offering both spiritual reflection and educational opportunities. The blend of religious observance with cultural exploration provided a comprehensive experience for all attendees, reinforcing the identity and traditions of Ariccia.
