Discovering the “Pompei of Umbria” – From Cesi to Carsulae

This easy, family-friendly hike takes you on a captivating journey through history in a very green archaeological park, among the remains of a Roman city that has remained untouched - no modern buildings were constructed over it, as often happened elsewhere.

The trail starts from the village of Cesi, perched on the southern slopes of the Martani Mountains, overlooking the Terni valley, and coincides with part of a stage of the Cammino dei Protomartiri Francescani. After passing through dense holm oak woods, you reach the deconsecrated church of a small medieval village that was destroyed during the conflicts between Guelphs and Ghibellines.

At the beginning, follow the paved road that climbs toward Sant’Erasmo. Turn left into the woods and continue along the trail until you reach the remains of the Church of Santa Caterina di Poggio Azzuano, which was also managed by the Templars before being destroyed.

From here, begin descending toward Carsulae, reaching the site after passing the parking area. The archaeological park is open to visitors for a fee.

Carsulae was a Roman municipium with important monuments: a theater, an amphitheater, baths, a forum, and several temples. You can walk along the ancient Via Flaminia and beneath the imposing Arch of San Damiano. There is a small museum, and the most recent excavations can be visited with a guide. For the return to Cesi, you can either follow the same trail or take the provincial road, which is scenic and lightly trafficked.

The starting point of this easy route can be reached from the SS 3 Bis (E45) coming from the north, exiting at Acquasparta. Continue on the Carsulana provincial road toward San Gemini, then turn left toward Cesi, arriving after passing the Carsulae archaeological park parking. Coming from the south or from Rome via the RATO (Terni-Orte connection), exit at Terni Nord and take the provincial road toward Cesi (8 kilometers). Parking is available on Viale Regina Elena.