Calcata, in the province of Viterbo, is a small medieval village perched on a tuff cliff overlooking the Treja Valley. This charming town, known for its scenic beauty, is pervaded by an aura of mystery and magic, fueled by the legends that surround it, especially those concerning witches. After the First World War, the village remained uninhabited until the 60s due to the occurrence of numerous landslides. It remained so until a group of hippie artists decided to settle there.
Viaggio at tempo
Calcata has a history that dates back to ancient times, with traces of settlements that are lost in the Etruscan era. The village, with its cobbled streets and stone houses, seems to take visitors back to a bygone era. The medieval architecture is well preserved, with typical features of the villages of Tuscia. Located just 50 km from Rome, Calcata is an ideal destination for those seeking an immediate escape from the frenzy of the capital.
The Witches of Calcata
Witches are a fundamental element of the popular tradition of Calcata, which has inspired tales and legends handed down over time. It is said that the village was once a refuge for unfortunate women, associated with mysterious powers and magical practices. These women, often overlooked by society for their peculiarities, gathered to practice ancient rituals, claiming to be able to communicate with the forces of nature and draw on ancestral wisdom.
Legends say that the witches of Calcata had the ability to cure diseases, foresee the future and even transform into animals. Some tales speak of night rituals, dances around sacred fires and invocations to ancient deities. Over the centuries, these tales have contributed to creating a romantic and fascinating image of the village, attracting the interest of tourists and folklore scholars. Even today, on windy days, along the streets of the town, you would hear the witches' singing.
Art and culture center
Today, Calcata is also known as a center of art and culture. In the 60s, the village experienced a major rebirth, when artists and intellectuals began to move here, attracted by its beauty and aura of mystery. Art galleries, artisan workshops and cultural events began to pop up, making Calcata a point of reference for lovers of creativity. Witches, although part of a mythical past, continue to be evoked in the cultural events of the village. Festivals and reviews dedicated to magic and local folklore attract curious visitors, eager to learn about the ancient stories that still breathe in its stones.
Unique experience
Calcata is much more than a simple medieval village. With its rich history and legends, it offers a unique experience to those who visit it. Walking through its streets, among stone houses and breathtaking views, you have the feeling of being part of a living history, made of myths and reality. Whether it is a walk in the middle of nature or a visit to an art gallery, Calcata remains an enchanted place, where the past and the present meet, wrapped in a veil of magic.
(Photo: Calcata Medieval Village; Calcata Municipality Informa, Facebook Pages)
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