DeloisItaly is a country that beckons travelers with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and unparalleled cuisine. Amidst the countless charming towns and cities, one gem shines particularly bright in my heart- Gaeta. Nestled on the Tyrrhenian coast, Gaeta is a captivating destination that boasts a unique blend of history, natural beauty and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.
Gaeta-Passing Through
The first time I saw Gaeta, I was a newly-wed wife of a Navy active duty sailor. We moved to Italy to a Naples duty station, three months after being married in 1982. After being stationed in Naples for about three months, one Saturday, we jumped in our Fiat for a exploring road trip adventure.
We had bought the Fiat from a NATO Turkish officer who was transferring, and this was our first on the road trip. We went with a tank barely full of benzina (gasoline) and no knowledge of where we were heading on down the Via Domiziana.
About an hour into the ride and passing through various little towns, we started to see Italian apartment buildings lining little hills and on the side of the mountain above the highway. We followed the winding road and soon the sea was to our left and a beautiful town lined the slopes and hills to our right. This was Gaeta. Only the USS Puget Sound (AD-38) was home-ported here with a support detachment group, so there was minimal US Naval presence in Gaeta. I thought to myself, “how beautiful this place is.”
Gaeta-My New Home
The next time I saw Gaeta was twelve years, and four children in tow later. We were stationed in Gaeta and came over as a large transfer of a new flagship staff, the USS LaSalle (AGF-3). Due to this increase in US Navy personnel, everything was upgraded, new commissary, remodeling of the DoD(Department of Defense) school and additional governmental housing. We chose to live in the Gaeta civilian community. What an experience! Living “on the economy” (not in government housing) shaped my children and increased my knowledge of Italian life. Gaeta became my favorite place in Italy.
In this blog post, I’ll take you on a journey through this hidden Italian treasure, revealing why Gaeta is my absolute favorite place in Italy and why you should visit it.
A Glimpse into Gaeta’s History
Gaeta’s history dates back thousands of years, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs. Its origins can be traced to ancient Roman times when it was known as “Caieta.” You can still find remnants of its Roman past, such as the mausoleum of Lucius Munatius Plancus, a prominent Roman statesman.
Throughout the centuries, Gaeta played a vital role in the region’s politics and was coveted by various rulers, including the Byzantines, Lombards, and Normans. The town’s historical significance is palpable as you wander through its narrow cobblestone streets and marvel at its medieval architecture.
The Enchanting Old Town
One of the highlights of Gaeta is its charming Old Town, a labyrinth of winding streets, historic buildings, and hidden courtyards. As you stroll through the Old Town, you’ll be captivated by the sense of timelessness that envelopes the area. The picturesque piazzas, centuries-old churches, and colorful houses create a perfect backdrop for exploration.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the 13th-century Castello Angioino-Aragonese perched on a hill, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the town and the sea. The climb to the castle might be steep, but the vistas are absolutely worth it, especially during sunset.
Gastronomic Delights
No visit to Italy is complete without savoring the country’s delectable cuisine, and Gaeta is no exception. Gaetano cuisine is renowned for its focus on fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Be sure to try some of the local specialties like tiella di Gaeta, a savory pie filled with a mixture of seafood and vegetables, or the famous Gaeta olives that are enjoyed both as a snack and in various dishes.
Strolling along the seafront promenade, the “lungomare” you’ll find numerous restaurants offering seafood dishes that are nothing short of exquisite. Pair your meal with a glass of crisp local white wine, and you’ll have a dining experience to remember. Take an after dinner walk with your family along the seafront and enjoy the chatter of other families on their evening stroll, too.
Natural Beauty at Serapo Beach
Gaeta is not only about its history and cuisine; it also offers some stunning natural beauty. Serapo Beach, a pristine stretch of golden sand lapped by crystal-clear waters, is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun. The beach is well-maintained and offers various water sports activities for the adventurous at heart.
For a quieter escape, explore the caves and coves dotting the coastline. The Grotta del Turco and Grotta del Serpente are popular choices for those seeking a bit of adventure and solitude while visiting the rugged coastal landscape.
Gaeta is a destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape by the sea, Gaeta has something to offer everyone. Its enchanting Old Town, delectable cuisine, and pristine beaches make it an Italian paradise waiting to be discovered.
After experiencing the view of the buildings that dot the mountains with glitter from their window reflections, the beautiful blue water of the sea, that I could see every morning when I opened the shuttered windows of my apartment, I can confidently say that Gaeta was my favorite place to be in Italy. It was even better to live there. After my own unforgettable adventures in Gaeta, it still is my favorite place in Italy. I hope you’ll have the chance to experience Gaeta’s magic for yourself, someday.
Book your visit to beautiful Gaeta here. Great travels to you!
Photo Credits:
Gabriella Clare Marino on Unsplash
Booking com
By Rudolf Stricker – Own work, Attribution,
I absolutely loved reading this post about Gaeta! It’s clear that the author has a deep connection and appreciation for this enchanting place in Italy. The vivid descriptions of the stunning coastline, historic sites, and mouthwatering cuisine truly transported me there. I appreciate how the author not only highlights the popular attractions but also shares some hidden gems off the beaten path. This post has definitely sparked my wanderlust, and Gaeta is now on my must-visit list. Thank you for sharing your favorite place in Italy with such passion and detail!
Thanks, Sophie for reading and commenting on my blog post. I really loved living in Italy previously in Naples, but living in Gaeta was the best. Visit Gaeta soon. Great travels to you!
Such a nice little peek into a portion of your life. It was very informative and the pictures were gorgeous. A lovely read. Thanks for sharing.
That’s exactly the sort of destination I’d like to visit sometime in the near future. I’m obsessed with anything relating to the Roman Empire, especially in the sort of backdrop where the old world meets the new. It blows my mind thinking about how all this modern living goes on right there in the shadow of the ancient world. People of today are walking in the footsteps of the Romans of the past so literally that they are even stepping on the same roads that are still there. Thanks so much for sharing this information and these wonderful pictures of Gaeta. I’m going to save this for my future travel plans!
Mark
Hi Mark,
You summed up the awe of being in Italy and how much I appreciated seeing the architecture from Roman times. I actually lived in another town before I lived in Gaeta which was located on the Via Appia (Appian Way). I would put my youngest son on the school bus on that road. That road was “one of the earliest and strategically most important Roman roads of the ancient republic. It connected Rome to Brindisi, in southeast Italy.” I would look down at the road and say St. Paul and St. Peter walked on this same road. Romans from the ancient empire walked here, amazing. But only history buffs (like me ) have these kinds of musings. Visit Gaeta. It’s a must-see. Great future travels to you!